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THE TESTING 



A PLAY IN 
FOUR ACTS 



BY 
A P. VAN HOESEN 'l^i^^ 



Love is first ; it is love and then life ! 
— Zolatel 



Copyright, 1909 
By A. P. VAN HOESEN 



/IT 



^ 



4 



\909 \ 



UBRARVofCON«ftES 
I One Com Recei««^ 



TO 

HORACE FLETCHER 

Whose teachings have tended to 

make the writing of this play and 

all other work a pleasure. 

A. P. Van Hoesen. 



PERSONS REPRESENTED 

J. Jules Vose-Taylor 

J. Taylor Karlton 

EicHARD Watson 

Floyed Maurice Sherwin (Flossy) 

Hastings Dayton 

( John Cavalack ") 

"[Mahommed J 

Mr. Page 

Mb. Dunbar 

Jackson (J. Taylor Karlton 's valet) 

Zolatel 

Mrs. Sherwin 

Helen Latrave 

Mme. Alplanalb 

Mrs. Page 

Mrs. Dunbar 

Miss Dunbar 

Blanid Dwyer (Maid to Zolatel) 

(Gentlemen, ladies and serving men at Lawn Fete) 



SCENES OF THE PLAY 

ACT I. 

Scene — J. Taylor Karlton's Bachelor Apartments, 

Central Park, West. 

Time — An Afternoon in May. 

ACT II. 

Scene — Grounds of the Country Place of the Sherwins 

Near Tarrytown on the Hudson. 
Time — An Evening in Early June. 

ACT III. 

Scene — Zolatel's Salon in Apartment Hotel, East 70th 

Street, New York. 

Time — Scene I. A Morning in June. Scene II. An 

Evening Four Days Later. 

ACT IV. 

Scene — The Same. 
Time — Afternoon a week Later. 

Time — The Present. 

Place — New York. 

The Action of the Play Takes Place Within Six 

Weeks, Beginning in Early May and Ending in June. 



THE TESTING 



ACT I. 



Scene — Handsome reception room in J. Taylor Karlton's 
apartment. Everything about the room is elegant and 
in good taste. A double door at bach, center, through 
which may be seen a wide hall, handsomely furnished, 
and a glimpse of a room beyond. Bight of door, chair, 
a table on which is syphon, glasses, cigars and cigarettes, 
and beyond this another chair. A fireplace, right upper, 
filled with potted plants in flower. On mantel a photo- 
graph of charming woman, together with several tall 
ornaments. Lower right, low boolccases. Beyond fire- 
place right, set diagonally and out from wall, a sofa, 
with armchair near it. Left of door, center, a chair, an 
easy chair near large windoiv curtained with lace, which 
is so draped that a glimpse of Central Park is seen. 
A tea table, several chairs near it, up left. A large 
table, left center, on which are writing materials and 
magazines. An armchair and ttvo others, near table. 

Time — About four o'clocTc on a spring afternoon. 

Enter Jackson as curtain rises. 

Jackson. (Ushering in Helen Latrave, a stylish, hand- 
somely dressed girl of about twenty-two.) Mr. Karlton 
will be in directly. 

Helen Latrave. (Looking about, pauses as if unde- 
cided about remaining, and speaks, in a surprised, anxious 
tone.) Mrs. Sherwin was to be here. 

Jackson. Mrs. Sherwin just 'phoned, Miss, that she'll 
be here shortly, and for you to please wait. (Takes paper 
from large table, left center, and hands it to Miss Latrave.) 
This is the evening paper if you care to look at it. 

Exit Jackson c. 
3 



4 THE TESTING 

(Miss Latrave. Lays paper on table without read- 
ing it, seats herself near table L. c. and glances 
about room. Observes photograph on mantel, 
rises, talces it and reseats herself.) 

Enter Jackson c. 

Jackson. {Showing in Mk. Dayton, a middle-aged man 
faultlessly dressed.) Mr. Karlton will be here in a few 
minutes, sir. He said if you came in, I should ask you, 
particularly, to please wait for him. 

Dayton. {Seeing Miss Latrave, exclaims in surprise 
and evident displeasure.) What! Helen! you here, and 
alone? 

Miss Latrave. {With photograph still in her hand, lean- 
ing toward Dayton as he advances.) Not intentionally, 
Uncle. Mrs. Sherwin was to be here, but she 'phoned that 
she was detained and asked that I should wait a few 
minutes for her. As Jack was out I remained. 

Dayton. {Placing a chair near Miss Latrave and seat- 
ing himself.) Whatever the circimistances, it is likely to 
compromise a girl to be in a bachelor's apartment without 
a chaperon. However, I 'm glad to have an opportunity to 
speak with you. {Notices picture in her hand and talces 
it.) A new picture of Zolatelf 

Miss Latrave. Yes {with a lift of her shoulders), still 
another. 

Dayton. {Talces picture and scrutinises it.) This ia 
the best I've seen, and, h'm {with a lift of brows), it's 
autographed., 

Miss Latrave. Yes. She must have given it to Jack. 
{Hesitatingly.) I wonder if he cares particularly for her? 

Dayton. {LooJcing at her quizzically, and ivith the 
photograph still in his hand, nods his head.) Quite likely. 
It's easier to count the men who are not infatuated with 
Zolatel than those who are. {Looking intently at the pic- 
ture and shaTcing his head.) Nature certainly did make her 
a snare for the sons of men. {Returning photograph to 
Miss Latrave.) Her pose in that picture is perfect {pauses 
a moment), though she is one of the rare women who 
always seems to be at her best. 

(Miss Latrave rises, replaces picture on mantel and 
reseats herself.) 

Miss Latrave. {Leaning toivard Dayton with a smiling 
look of expectation.) You said you had something to say 
to me. Uncle? 

Dayton. Yes! {Pauses.) I have postponed speaking to 
you of certain matters, Helen, hoping that it might not be 



THE TESTING 5 

necessary, but the time has come when I have no choice 
but to speak. (Hesitates a moment.) To put it briefly 
and baldly, you and I have been living the lives of mil- 
lionaires vpithout the assets. 

Miss Latrave. (Putting her left hand to the side of her 
face and starting hack.) Why! Uncle! what do you mean? 

Dayton. (With emphasis.) What I have said, and this 
cursed panic has swept away what I might have had. 
Fortunately, Taylor left me something, and I am one of 
the executors. That vdll float us for a time. I don 't 
know, — ^but I thinlc I do, — 'how you feel about Jack Karl- 
ton, but the man I want you to marry is his cousin, Vose- 
Taylor. 

Miss Latrave. (Evidently amazed.) Why, — Uncle, I 
— I have — have never seen him, and — and — 

Dayton. (Interrupting her.) There's no time to ex- 
plain now. I will do that later. Vose-Taylor is to be here 
this afternoon. He has just arrived from the West, has 
met no one. (Leaning toward her, his arm on table be- 
tween them, regards her intently.) Helen, you can win him. 
Will you do it, for my sake, — nay, for your own? 

Miss Latrave. (With indrawn breath and slightly com- 
pressed lips.) It is all so sudden, Uncle, and — Didn't Mr. 
Taylor leave Jack a part of his fortune? 

Dayton. He left him a provisional four million, 
but, as I have said, the man for you to marry, is Vose- 
Taylor. (Protrudes lips and seems to consider.) I have 
been a father to you, Helen, your whole life, and this is 
the first sacrifice I have asked. 

Miss Latrave. (Drawing in her lips and pressing them 
firmly together.) I will try and do as you wish. (Pauses, 
then speaJcs ivith some effort.) I never before thought of 
being under obligation to you. 

Dayton. (Leaning toward her, speaking in a loio voice 
and with some feeling.) Don't put it that way. I see 
how it is. Jack Karlton now seems the one man in the 
world, but, believe me, the old Greeks were right when 
they gave Cupid wings. Love is here to-day and gone 
to-morrow. All men know this; most women find it out; 
you would. Believe me, the sacrifice will be brief, the 
gain enduring. You will do this? And willingly? (Dayton 
lays his hand on Miss Latrave's.) 

Miss Latrave. Yes, Uncle. (Baises her eyes to his.) 
Because I love you. (Pauses a moment.) And my love 
has no wings. 

(Doors open and close. There is a confusion of 
voices, above which Jackson's is heard. Miss 
Latrave draws a quick breath, sits baclc in chair 
and looks toward c.) 



6 THE TESTING 

Jackson. {Heard spealing in reception hall.) Mr. 
Dayton and Miss Latrave are here. Miss Latrave has been 
waiting since a few moments after you 'phoned. 

Dayton. ( With a side glance toward Miss Latrave, 
speahing hurriedly and emphatically.) Don't be misled by 
what you will hear. Just act as I have suggested. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (In elaborate street costume, enters 
briskly, with breezy hustle and rush, followed by Karlton 
and Watson. Gives her hand to Mr. Dayton, who comes 
forward to meet her and exclaims in a pausless hurry of 
ivords.) I know I deserve to be annihilated for leaving 
that child (indicates Miss Latrave, ivho has risen with a 
side nod of her head) here alone, but I just couldn't get 
here a moment sooner. You are going to forgive me, aren't 
you, Hastings? 

Dayton. Quite impossible, Kate, since, as things stand, 
there's nothing to forgive. 

(During this conversation between Dayton and Mrs. 
Sherwin, Miss Latrave greets Karlton and 
Watson, aiid laughing at something Watson 
says to her, which is not heard, moves with him 
to sofa and seats herself. Watson seats him- 
self lightly on arm of chair at Miss Latrave 's 
side. Karlton spealcs in loio tone to Jackson, 
ivho stands near D. c. What he says is not 
heard. Dayton saunters to table, left center, 
seats himself with arm resting carelessly on it.) 

Miss Latrave. (Addressing Mrs. Sherwin, who has un- 
fastened her wrap and drops it over chair near window.) 
Did you succeed in getting things arranged at Sherry's? 

Mrs. Sherwin. (As she talces chair near tea table, speaTc- 
ing as usual in a pauseless hurry.) No, that is, not entirely, 
and such a time as I 'm having about that drop curtain for 
the kiosk. Artists act as if their reputation was egg-shell 
china, and the smaller it is, the more fuss they make about 
it. I mean, their reputation, not the egg-shell china. Think 
of Gascon, saying he could not bring himself to paint it 
as I planned. He said that, with the inclosing canvas, which 
is up, it would not be artistic. Gascon, mind you! I don't 
know \vhat to do. If I could turn time back like a clock 
I'd have no lawn fete. 

(Karlton talces cigarettes from table and passes 

them, to Miss Latrave who talces one. After 

giving her a light he passes them to Watson 
and Dayton.) 

Karlton. (Having lighted his cigarette, stands leaning 
against mantel near Miss Latrave. Speaking between 



THE TESTING 7 

puffs.) Mistake of your life, Kate, that you don't smoke. 
'Twould tone up your nerves and Gascon couldn't bother 
you. However, as you don 't smoke, and he does bother you, 
suppose I look after that curtain? 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Clasping her hands and leaning for- 
ward.) Oh Jack! Will you? But really, I'm ashamed to 
have you do another thing. 

Karlton. {Holding his cigarette in his fingers.) Non- 
sense! I'll get you up something that'll do. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Of course, whatever you do will be 
good. {Leaning baclc with satisfied air.) I'm so relieved. 

Karlton. {Still speaTcing as he smoTces.) Has Zolatel 
agreed to give a scene from her new play? 

Mrs. Shervfin. Yes, at least I have the word of that 
old she-dragon, Blanid Dvpyer, that she will. I haven't 
been able to get as much as a glimpse of Zolatel. 

Karlton. Good! Blanid 's word is all right. How did 
you manage it? Since she's been rehearsing for "The 
Prophet of the Desert," she has refused every one, without 
recourse. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Well, to begin with, I'm your cousin. 
{Glancing at picture on mantel and speaTcing as usual^ very 
rapidly.) What a good picture that is of her. She is the 
only actress I ever knew who is better looking than any of 
her pictures. I should not dare to introduce Maurice to her 
if he were not immune as to women and growing more so 
every day. You observe I call him Maurice. He's now 
giving all his attention to French and objects to Floyed, 
though I think his mother would turn in her grave if she 
knew he was called anything else. What a blessing it is, 
that, living or dead, we can't know all that's going on. 

(Watson and Karlton exchange a quiclc glance of 
understanding. Watson draws up his nose and 
blows forth several rings of smoTce. Then 
saunters to ivindow, glances out of it and seats 
himself in armchair standing near it. Karlton 
bends his head and says something to Miss Lat- 
rave which is not heard, but causes her to 
smile.) 

Dayton. {Turning to Mrs. Sherwin with a slight smile.) 
So French is replacing the old masters of literature in your 
household? 

Mrs. Sherwin. {With an upward and outward deprecia- 
tory motion of her two hands.) Heaven forbid! Not in 
our household. Maurice keeps his learning and himself, 
most of the time, in his down-town studio. I don't see 
how he endures knowing so much. If I had more time to 



S THE TESTING 

think about it, I should be dreadfully worried. But I am 
glad he's given vip the dead languages. I know they are 
bad for him, for when he has put in two or three nights at 
his studio, he's never fit for anything for a week. 

(Karlton glances, with an uplift of Ms brotcs, at 
Watson, wiio, with a slant look, strokes his 
chin.) 

Karlton. But you haven't told us how you secured 
Zolatel?- 

Mrs. Sherwin. {With a slight nod of her head.) Well, 
as Maurice would say, — he is so picturesque, if he hadn't 
been born with a gold spoon in his mouth and married 
another gold spoon he would have been a genius — it was 
with a bait of flattery and a creel of gold. Whoever gave 
her the name of the Golden Zolatel made a hit, though I 
don't suppose he intended to. Who was it, Jack? Do you 
know? I wonder if that's why she always wears a knot of 
yellow ribbon? 

Karlton. I think not. She calls the yellow ribbon her 
insignia. She has worn it since the first time I saw her. 
I can't say who gave her the name, but how much coin was 
there in your creel, Kate? 

Mrs. Sherwin. I'm ashamed to tell. 

Karlton. We'll not mention it. 

Dayton. Of course not. 

Watson. ( With cigarette 'between first and second 
fingers, raises right hand tvith a waving motion.) Mum as 
mummies, so say we all of us. 

Mrs. Sherwin. You see if Maurice did know, what could 
I say when he buys old books and other junk, on which he'd 
spend a fortune a year, if I did not pull him up? (Pauses 
and takes a deep breath.) But old books are better than 
young women. I don 't know what I 'd do if I had, for 
instance, Page, on my hands. He sent Zolatel a beautiful 
old scarab last week, set in diamonds. But I'm glad to 
say she sent it on to Mrs. Page, with a note saying she took 
pleasure in correcting a mistake, as it was intended for her. 
Zolatel is decent in limiting the gifts of her admirers to 
flowers, though she is a grasping miser and a bomb throwing 
socialist. 

Watson. (Removing his cigarette and blowing forth a 
cloud of smoke.) A scarab and diamonds, what unspeak- 
able taste ! I don 't wonder she sent it on to Mrs. Page ; 
but, my dear Mrs. Sherwin, there are no bomb throwing 
socialists. Socialists throw nothing but words, with which 
they propagate their propaganda. 

Miss Latrave. Is Zolatel a socialist? I thought she 
was just a — well, a protrayer of love intense. . 



THE TESTING 9 

Dayton. (With a slight sneer.) Socialism, with Zolatel, 
like the mystery with which she surrounds herself, is just a 
play. She is first and last and all the time an actress. 

Watson. (Narrowing his eyes, slightly shaking his head, 
as he removes his cigarette and speafcs slowly and with 
clearly defined emphasis.) She's that and much more, or she 
could not be that. Zolatel is typical of the woman of to- 
morrow who will know what things mean. She will be good, 
because she will know it's best to be good, and, as the 
mother of men, will teach them the things she knows. 

Kablton. (As he steps and puts remnant of cigarette 
in ash receiver on table where there are glasses and syphons 
and speaking with a wise half smile.) What, — Dick! You 
too under the spell? When did it happen? 

Watson. (With a shrug and a shake of his head.) It 
hasn't happened. There is such a thing as understanding 
and friendship between some men and women in this rather 
nice old world. 

Karlton. (Leaning against the mantel near Miss La- 
TRAVE.) Admit it, to escape argument. (Addressing Mrs. 
Sherwin.) But the figures, Kate, what are they? Be 
honest now. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Folding her hands on the table before 
her with a motion of resignation.) You are relentless, 
Jack. Well, if you must know, I 'm to pay her $4,000. 
Of course it's an outrageous price, but I'd rather have her 
than any number of things to be had in jNew York. 

Watson. (Bemoving his cigarette and blowing forth 
one or two rings of smoke.) Permit me to felicitate you 
on your judgment and taste. 

Karlton. (Addressing Mrs. Sherwin.) You, of course, 
arranged for the scene between Ayesha and Mahommed? 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Taking a deep breath.) Yes, with the 
Dwyer woman, but how did you know about the different 
scenes? 

Karlton. (Carelessly, as he flicks the ash off a neioly 
lighted cigarette.) Dan Endicott, who wrote the play, 
asked me to read it before Zolatel saw it. By the way, I 
wish you'd have invitations for your fete sent to the Cava- 
lacks and Endicotts. I want tnem to see that I fulfil the 
requirements of my late uncle's will which relate to 
Zolatel. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Exclaiming.) Zolatel! what has she 
to do with your uncle's will? 

Miss Latrave. (Frowning a little and leaning forward 
with a look of intense interest.) Is Zolatel one of the 
beneficiaries? 

Mrs. Sherwin. (With her elbow on the table at which 
she is sitting and her side face resting on her hand, she 



10 THE TESTING 

leans eagerly toward K'ARLTON.) Then the will has been 
opened and you know what's in it? 

Karlton. Yes, I was obliged to ask L>ick, here {motions 
■with a side nod to Watson), to act as host to a little coach- 
ing party I was giving this morning while I went to ever 
detestable, lower Broadway, to hear it read. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (With pleased anticipation.) And 
you're to have the bulk of your eccentric relative's fortune? 

Karlton. (Shrugging his shoulders and shaking his 
head.) No, after the lapse of years, I may be one of the 
heirs. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (With explosive incredulity.) Jack 
Karlton! You don't mean to say that your uncle did not 
leave you at least half his fortune? What did he do with 
it? 

Karlton. (Takes paper from his pocket.) It's all set 
down here. This is a copy of the will. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Do tell us what's in it. 

Miss Latrave. Yes, do. 

(Watson leans hack, half closes his eyes and blows 
forth several globes of smoke.) 

Karlton. I detest documents. (Hands paper to Day- 
ton.) Here, Dayton. 

(Karlton seats himself in armchair near Miss 
Latrave.) 

Dayton. ( Takes paper and adjusts eye-glasses. Looking 
over document.) Let — me — see. Only the facts are of 
interest. 

Dayton. (Glances down one page of document, then 
removes eye-glasses.) The first provision is the setting 
aside of $2,000,000 for buying sites, and building apart- 
ment houses to be rented only to persons having children. 

Mrs. Shervfin. (Throwing herself back in her chair 
and dropping her hands, with fingers lightly interlocked, in 
her lap.) What an absurd thing. 

Dayton. (Holding document in hand, but ivithout look- 
ing at it.) To Jules, Catherine Vose's son, is bequeathed a 
provisional $17,000,000. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Sitting erect and looking at Dayton.) 
That leaves but $11,000,000 for Jack, but what are the 
provisions? 

Dayton. (With document still in hana, but without 
consulting it.) He is to transpose his name to Vose-Taylor, 
and neither marry, become engaged, nor form any alliance 
with any woman before seven years from to-day. 

Miss Latrave. ( With an astonished, puzzled look and 
a quick side glance at Dayton.) Neither to become en- 
gaged, nor marry in seven years! How extraordinary! 



THE TESTING H 

Mrs. Sherwin. I should say it icas extraordinary. But 
do tell us what Jacic is to have! 

Dayton. He is to have $4,000,000, providing he does 
not become engaged, marry, nor form any alliance with any 
woman until after four years from to-day. 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Eaising her two hands and bringing 
them down tvith emphasis on the edge of the table near 
which she is sitting.) I never, in my whole life, heard 
anything so perfectly ridiculous. That certainly is the 
limit. 

Dayton. (Protruding his lips ana with a side noa of 
his head.) No, it's not the limit {glances at second page 
of document) ; there are three other provisions. 

Mrs. Sherv^tin. (With disgust and as if she could no 
longer be astonished.) Heavens! "What are they? 

Dayton. First Karlton is to establish his cousin, Vose- 
Taylor, as soon as possible in apartments as good or better 
than these he occupies; he is to introduce him at his clubs, 
and within four weeks from to-day is to present him to an 
actress who is counted one of the most popular and attrac- 
tive in New York. 

Miss Latrave. (Glancing at Karlton.) Then the part 
Zolatel has in your uncle's will is incidental? 

Karlton. (Speaking easily.) That's all. It simply 
chances that, just now, Zolatel is the most popular actress 
in New York. . 

Mrs. Sherwin. (Speaking with explosive emphasis and 
glancing sympathetically at Miss Latrave.) Think of that 
old man, telling Jack from his grave that he shall not be- 
come engaged for four years and shall introduce his cousin 
to a leading actress. It must be the old goose proposes to 
test poor Jules as old St. Anthony was tested. 

Karlton. (Smiling.) I don't think so. I've heard my 
mother say my uncle was in love with a talented and beau- 
tiful girl who was studying for the stage w^hen she died. 
He was always interested in the theater and believed that 
it would become the greatest of all teachers. 

Mrs Sherwin. Well, anyway, in my opinion, only a 
man as mad as mad could be, would think of such pro- 
visions. (Turning to Karlton.) You will, of course, have 
the will set aside. 

Karlton. (Steps to table on which are glasses ana 
syphons, cigarettes, etc., and speaks as he passes ash re- 
ceiver to Miss Latrave in tvhich she drops the remnant of 
the cigarette she has been smoking and declines fresh one.) 
My dear Kate, to attempt it, would tie up the estate for 
years. I'll take my $4,000,000, if I can get it, and live 
while I live. , 

Watson. (Looking reflectively into space.) You re 
wiser, Jack, than the seven men who couldn't give a reason. 



12 THE TESTING 

Half of a single million would keep me from being reduced 
to matrimony. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Reduced to matrimony! Shame on you, 
Dick! But you never do mean what you say. (Turning 
to Dayton.) But what is to be done with the rest of this 
old lunatic's hoard? 

Dayton. What remains is to be equally divided between 
the Children's Aid Society, and the City Missions of New 
York. ( With a little smile and raising the document which 
he still holds in his hand.) But I think you will be inter- 
ested to know, Kate, that your husband is one of the 
executors {places hand on document) of this will. 

Mrs. Sherwin. {With explosive astonishment.) What! 
Maurice? You don't mean it. 

Dayton. Yes, he, Cavalack and myself are the executors 
{with a nod of his head toward Watson), and Dick and 
Henry Endicott, together with us, are to decide whether 
or not Karlton {glances at Kj^rlton) and his cousin Jules 
fulfil the provisions of the will. 

(Dayton folds document and lays it on table.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Addressing Watson.) Did you know 
about it, Dick? 

Watson. Yes, the will was drawn in Cavalack 's ofEice. 

Dayton. {Tapping ivill, as it lies on the table at his 
side, with the tips of his fingers.) And it's an all-right 
document, and, witli the estate to draw on to maintain it, 
to attempt to have it set aside would be worse than useless. 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Leaning bach in her chair, resignedly.) 
Well, unjust as it is, I suppose there's nothing to do but 
let the years take their course. 

Karlton. {As he passes cigarettes.) That's the sum of 
it. {Lighting his own cigarette.) Even if I were sure of 
success, a lawsuit would bore me to a finish. 

Watson. {Blotvs out little globes of smolce and waves 
his left hand. With cigarette betiveen fingers, he half 
chants.) "Said my old Uncle Dan, a wise man and steady, 
what's the world to a man, when his wife is a widdie?" 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Tahing an explosive breath.) But just 
think of it! Jack is to have but $4,000,000, while John 
Jules will have more than four times as much. 

Watson. That is, if, for the next seven years, he con- 
ducts himself as to marriage as we are told the angels do in 
heaven. How old is he now? 

Mrs. Sherwin. {After thinMng a moment and speaking 
more slowly than usual.) Let — me — see. He was eight 
years old when Catherine and Kex left New York. That 
was sixteen years ago. He is now four and twenty. 

Watson. He'll be just getting out of his salad days 
when he comes in to his $17,000,000, providing he wins out. 



THE TESTING 13 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Turning to Dayton.) What is he 
like? 

Dayton. H'm, much like his late eccentric uncle, with 
the inflexibility of inexperience added. 

Miss Latrave. {Turning to Karlton, who has risen.) 
When are you going to present your cousin to us? 

Karlton. I hope within the hour. {Glances at clock 
on mantel.) He was to be here about four o'clock, though 
he may still be shipping machinery to Chicago. He made 
a rush exit to that end, as soon as the will was read. 

Dayton. {Addressing Karlton.) Have you thought of 
Turner's apartment for him? 

Karlton. Yes, that's what I want to speak to you 
about. Turner is to be away two years and leaves every- 
thing as he has it. It seems to me to be just the thing. 

Watson. {Removing his cigarette.) How do you like 
getting down to business, Jack? 

Karlton. I don 't like it. I 'm going to relapse. Let 's 
have tea. {Rings.) 

Enter Jackson. 

Karlton. Bring in tea. 

(Mrs. Sherwin seats herself at tea table and pro- 
ceeds to arrange cups and saucers before her.) 

Enter Jackson c. with tray. 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Addressing Jackson.) I left word at 
Sherry's that they could call me up here until five-thirty. 
If they call, tell them that I'll come at once. 

Jackson. Yes, madam. 

(Jackson attends.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Glancing across the room to Miss 
Latrave.) Two lumps as usual, Helen? (Miss Latrave 
nods. With a side glance says something not heard to 
Karlton, who, after ringing, has sauntered back to her 
side.) 

Exit Jackson c. 

(Watson rises, goes to Mrs. Sherwin, takes cup and 
hands it to Miss Latrave. Voices are heard.) 

Karlton. {Turning and taking a step toward D. c.) 
The clink of the cups brings the belated guest. 

Enter Jackson c. 

Jackson. Mr. Vose-Taylor. 



14 THE TESTING 

(Vose-Tayloe seems to be heated from hurry. With 
hat in hand he mops his brow with a crumpled 
handkerchief. His hair is in disorder and cling- 
ing wet about his forehead. Karlton meets 
him as he enters.) 

VosE- Taylor. {Observing no one but Karlton.) I 
should have been here sooner, but, Great Scott! the long 
suit of this blooming old town is deliberation. In Chicago 
I — I — {seeing others present becomes confused). I did 
not see you had guests. 

(Mrs. Shebwin rises.) 

Karlton. {Stepping with Vose-Taylor to Mrs. Shee- 
wiN.) Mr. Vose-Taylor, Mrs. Sherwin. 

Mr. Vose-Taylor. {As they shake hands.) How do 
you do? 

Mrs. Sherwin. How do you do? So glad to see you 
again. You see, I am at the advantage. I knew you very 
well twenty years ago. 

Vose-Taylor. {With a smile and bow.) I'm delighted 
to renew the acquaintance. 

{As Karlton turns to present Vose-Taylor to Miss 
Latrave, Mrs. Sherwin reseats herself at tea 
table.) 

Karlton. Mr. Vose-Taylor, Miss Latrave. 

(Miss Latrave, who has risen, gives Vose-Tayloe 
her hand.) 

Vose-Tayx,oe. How do you do? 

Miss Lateave. {Very cordially.) How do you do? We 
have been expecting you. 

(Miss Lateave continues standing, and Watson, 
who has risen, steps forward.) 

Karlton. Mr. Vose-Taylor, Mr. Watson. 

Watson. {Speaking very heartily, as they shake hands.) 
Glad to know you. 

Vose-Tayloe. {Who has completely recovered his self- 
possession, bowing slightly.) Delighted, I am sure. 

(Watson raises his brows and glances with a slight 
nod to Miss Lateave. Mbs. Sheewin pours a 
cup of tea.) 

Mes. Sheewin. {Turns toward Dayton with silver sugar 
tongs in her hand.) After reading that will, Hastings, 
you'll need plenty of sugar. I'll put a third lump in the 
saucer. 



THE TESTING 15 

(Mrs. Sherwin, after putting in the lemon, drops a 
lump of sugar in the saucer and motions Jack- 
son to take the cup to Dayton.) 

Miss Latrave, {Addresses Vose-Taylor and speaking 
with a smile and in a friendly, familiar way.) I'm sorry 
your first impressions of New York aren't quite pleasant, 
but I hope they will speedily become more agreeable. 

Vose-Taylor. {Regarding Miss Latrave with a look of 
admiration.) Already your wish is being fulfilled. 

(Watson again raises his brotvs with a little smile 
and a glance at Karlton.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Leaning forward and addressing Vose- 
Taylor.) May I pour you a cup of tea, Jules? Permit 
me to call you so. Your mother and I were friends when 
we were children. 

Vose-Taylor. {Boxoing slightly.) It is kind of you to 
suggest doing so. 

(Vose-Taylor crosses stage and takes cup from Mrs. 
Sherwin.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {As she hands him cup.) How is it, 
are you quite satisfied with yovir uncle's will? 

Vose-Taylor. I wish he had left $10,000,000 for those 
apartment buildings. I 'm going to look over the specifica- 
tions with Cavalack to-morrow and get things moving. 
{Turns to Dayton.) When can I discuss the matter with 
you, Mr. Dayton? 

Dayton. Dine with us to-morrow, quite informally, and 
we will talk it over. 

Miss Latrave. Yes, do. We dine at seven. 

Vose-Taylor. {Again regarding her with a look of 
smiling admiration.) I shall be very pleased. 

(Mrs. Sherwin pours tea and motions Jackson to 
hand it to Watson.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Addressing Watson as she drops lemon 
and sugar in cup.) I know how you like your tea, Dick. 
{Addressing Vose-Taylor, who is standing near Miss La- 
trave.) You surely are not serious in saying you're going 
in for building those apartments for children who have 
parents ? 

Vose-Taylor. {Gravely, and with emphasis.) Most 
decidedly. 

Mrs. Sherwin. I cannot understand how that kind of 
thing interests so young a man. 

Watson. {As he takes cup from Jackson, addresses 
Mrs. Sherwin with a whimsical smile.) And would you, 
dear Mrs. Sherwin, relegate the well-being of children to old 



16 THE TESTING 

men, since, as a rule, those who are young are their fathers? 
Mrs. Sherwin. (With a depreciatory motion of her 
head.) How absurd you can be, Dick. 

(VosE- Taylor hands cup to Jackson and then 
saunters to mantelpiece and stands looTcing at 
picture of Zolatel. Jackson gathers up cups 
which have been used.) 

Exit Jackson c. 

Vose-Taylor. {After looMng several moments intently 
at Zolatel 's picture, addresses Watson, and, indicating 
picture with a little motion of his head.) Who is this? 

Watson. That's a picture of Zolatel. and no picture 
does her justice, since charm hasn't yet been photographed. 

(Voices are heard in reception hall.) 

Enter Jackson c. 

Jackson. Mile. Zolatel. 

(All start in surprise. Zolatel enters with quick 
grace, her face upraised and smiling in an im- 
personal way which gives the impression of 
sweetness, gravity and perfect poise. On left 
side of coat is a knot of gold yellow satin rib- 
hon. She is folloived by her maid, Blanid 
DwYER, who deftly removes her cloak as she 
comes forward into the room, and a similar knot 
of yellow ribbon is revealed on her bodice.) 

Karlton. {Advances quickly, meets her as she enters c, 
speaking as he greets her.) An unexpected honor and 
pleasure. 

(Vose-Taylor turns from picture and regards 
Zolatel first with a startled and then absorbed 
gase.) 

Zolatel. {As she inclines her head and places her hand 
in Karlton 's, speaking in the soft accent of the South.) 
You are most good. It chanced I had a free moment and 
I came in to thank you for a delightful morning. Had you 
been with us it would have been perfect. 

(Zolatel tur7is, nods to Watson with a bright little 
smile, bows to Miss Latrave and advances to 
meet Mrs. Sherwin, who rises and comes for- 
ward. ) 

Zolatel. {Offering her hand with much cordiality.) At 
last we meet. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Yes, at last, but I'd made up my mind 
that taking a city would be less difficult. 



THE TESTING 17 

ZoLATEL. (With sweet graciousness and speaking always 
■til the soft accent of the South.) I'm always regretting 
that I 'm obliged to deny myself most amenities. ( With a 
touch of pathetic gravity.) But, I 'm a toiler, and have no 
choice but to work and watch. 

(Dayton, who has risen, comes forward. All except 
Vose-Taylor gather about Zolatel, who stands 
with Mrs. Sherwin near tea table. Vose-Tay- 
lor, ivho has not moved from mantel, is back of 
Karlton, ivho for the moment seems to have for- 
gotten his presence. Regarding Zolatel with 
fascinated gase, Vose-Taylor leans forward as 
if unconscious of all save her. Miss Latrave 
watches him with furtive attention. Dayton 
greets Zolatel with a bow and smile, which she 
returns.) 

Dayton. (Speaking significantly.) To see you in this 
way and at this hour, is indeed an unusual pleasure. You 
really should work less, not watch so much and let us see 
more of you. You know the old saying as to a watched pot? 

Blanid. (Standing like a soldier at attention with 
Zolatel 's coat on her arm.) Savin' ye 're presence, sorr 
(slightly inclining her head to others present), an' th' 
others, it's a watched pot that neither burns nor biles over. 

Zolatel. (Turning to Blanid and speaking in a tone of 
tolerant reproach.) Really, Blan, really! 

(Watson places chair for Blanid near d. c, and 
motions her to take it. She sits, but maintains 
an attitude of grim alertness.) 

Zolatel. (Looking up at Dayton, who with Karlton, 
Watson and Miss Latrave are standing near her, and 
speaks in a clear, low-keyed voice and sweetly.) It isn't 
quite the watching of a pot, Mr. Dayton, but the vigilant 
labor which makes and keeps all things ready for crowning 
moments. 

(As Zolatel ceases speaking, Vose-Taylor starts 
forward as if impelled by what she has said to 
speak without reference to the conventions.) 

Vose-Taylor. That's true in all lines, and all along the 
line. It is when technique is perfected by hard work, and 
constant observing, that the crowning power to create comes. 

(All turn toward Vose-Taylor in surprise. Zolatel 
regards him with a look of keen appreciation.) 

Karlton. (Speaking quickly, as he steps toivard Vose- 
Taylor.) Pardon, Jules! Pardon! Mademoiselle, permit 
me to present my cousin, Mr. Vose-Taylor. 
2 



18 THE TESTING 

(ZoLATEL steps to meet Vose-Tatlor and gives him 
her hand with quick cordiality, and a smile and 
looJc as of recognition passes between them.) 

Enter Jackson c. 

Jackson. (Addressing Mrs. Sherwin.) They've just 
called from Sherry's, and the Manager wants to know if 
you can be there in ten minutes. 

Mrs. Sherwin. How provoking! I must see him. (To 
Jackson.) Say I'm starting. (To Zolatel.) I do so 
want to arrange things with you. What am I to do? 

Zolatel. Perhaps Mr. Karlton and I can manage mat- 
ters. Shall we try? 

Mrs. Sherwin. (As Dayton adjusts her wrap.) Oh, 
do ! Everything about the kiosk is in a tangle. You know 
just what you want, and Jack says he'll look after it. 
(Turns to Miss Latrave.) I'm sorry to drag you away, 
Helen, but do come with me and help me get things finished 
up at Sherry's. 

Miss Latrave. (Rising and addressing Vose-Tayloe 
imth a smile of cordial friendliness, as if intimacy was' 
established between them.) Remember, we expect you to- 
morrow at seven. 

(Zolatel, who still stands, regards Miss Latrave 
with a questioning loolc.) 

Dayton. {^Stepping to Zolatel 's side, speaks in a tone 
so low that what he says is not heard.) 

Zolatel. I'm sorry, but it is impossible. I'm so very 
busy just now. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Adieu, adieu. (Boivs and hurries out. 
Miss Latrave bows and follows her.) 

Dayton, i, too, must go, as I have an engagement with 
Endicott. (Bowing.) I bid you all good evening. 

Exit Dayton c. 
(Jackson steps forward and attends him.) 

Zolatel. (Stepping to table, left center, and with a 
little uplift of her shoulders, seats herself and addresses 
Karlton.) And now to business. (Karlton seats himseif 
on other side of table, facing Zolatel.) What do you say 
to a curtain with a motif of pomegranate blossoms for the 
little stage? 

Karlton. Charming! And Beckwell will do it, — 'for 
you. 

Zolatel. I think so. He is doing most of the scenery 
for "The Prophet of the Desert." 

Enter Jackson c. 

Jackson. Mr. Sherwin. 



THE TESTING 19 

Enter Mr. Sherwin 

(A slender, middle-aged man dressed in the height 
of fashion. Uses a monocle and holds his head 
forward and his chin tilted upicard. Has an 
odd expressio7i of absent-minded gravity. Greets 
Karlton and Watson with a nod and a look 
askance, and Zolatel with a low how.) 

Karlton rises. 

Karlton. My cousin, Mr. Vose-Taylor, Mr. Sherwin. 

Sherwin. {Adjusting his monocle and offering his 
hand.) I knew you when I was not so young as I now am, 
and you were in knickerbockers. 

Karlton. {Addressing Sherwin.) Kate's just gone. 

Sherwin. {With a nod and an upward wave of his right 
hand.) Hence my coming. Never to meet the partner of 
— most of your sorrows — too frequently, is one of the 
secrets of being happy, though married for life. 

Karlton. {Who has reseated himself at table opposite 
Zolatel. ) Kate tells me she 's going to have the pleasure 
of presenting you to Mademoiselle {ivith a smile and a little 
motion of his head toward Zolatel) at her lawn fete. 

Sherwin. {Who has passed down stage back of Karlton 
and stands with his side face to audience and facing 
Zolatel, bowing and addressing her.) Will you permit me 
to be introduced to you, for the first time, at my wife 's lawn 
fete? It was to ask this favor, that I'm incidentally here. 

Zolatel. {Glancing at him from the tail of her eye.) 
Indeed, yes, as a favor to an old friend. 

Sherwin. Ah! most kind. Many thanks. 

(Vose-Taylor joins Watson. He glances out of 
window as he seats himself, and, after speaking 
a few words with Watson, leans back and looks 
at Zolatel with fascinated gaze. Sherwin seats 
himself in chair near sofa. His monocle falls 
from his eye. He replaces it and looks at Vose- 
Taylor with an odd, wise look.) 

Blanid. {Who is sitting on the edge of her chair, with 
one foot advanced as if to rise, consults an old-fashioned 
gold watch, fastened to a long chain about her neck.) It's 
toime we should be goin', Mademoiselle. 

(Watson, with his chin between his bent fore-finger 
and thumb, with a little smile is observing Vose- 
Taylor, Blanid and Sherwin.) 

Zolatel. Directly, Blan. {Turns to Watson.) Have 
you spoken to Mr. Karlton of that little surprise for Mrs. 
Sherwin ? 



20 THE TESTING 

Watson. I've had no opportunity. I met Mrs. Sherwin 
and Karlton at the door. 

ZoLATEL. (SpeaMng to Kablton.) As I did not then 
expect to call I told Dick this morning to ask you to let 
me know what you thought of our giving * * The Dawn 
Waltz ' ' when the curtain goes down on the scene from 
' ' The Prophet of the Desert. ' ' Do you think Mrs. Sherwin 
would like it? 

Kaklton. (With enthusiasm.) Delightful. I'm sure 
she would. (Pauses a moment.) And could we not make 
the waltz general for a few minutes? 

ZoLATEL. Good! That would make the social part of 
the program informal. (Turning to VosE- Taylor.) You 
dance ? 

Vose-Taylor. (Speaking as if recalled to himself.) 
Yes. (After a moment's pause, speaking quite naturally.) 
I've been told my mother began teaching me to dance as 
soon aa I could stand. 

Sherwin. (Addressing Vose-Taylor.) Ah! how well I 
remember your mother. She had lyric feet. When she 
appeared at a charity fete as a barefooted gypsy, we were 
all mad about her. 

ZoLATEL. (Addressing Vose-Taylor.) Will you be of 
us who lead the dance? 

Vose-Taylor. With pleasure. 

ZoLATEL. (Rising and turning to Blanid.) Now, Blan. 
(The men all rise. Blanid comes forward and ad- 
justs and fastens Zolatel's cloak.) 

ZoLATEL. (Smiling and with a quick little nod to Karl- 
ton, Watson and Sseuwin.) Au revoir! au revoir! (As 
she passes Vose-Taylor, she extends her hand.) Adieu, my 
new-found friend. 

Enter Jackson c. 
(Exit Jackson, attending Zolatel, accompanied by 
Blanid.) 

Karlton. (Addressing Sherwin.) How is it, Flossy, 
are you going to Turner's with us? 

Sherwin. ( Who holds monocle between thumb and fore- 
finger of left hand.) 1 think not. I dine with Kate to- 
night. 

Watson. Does that preclude everything else? 

Sherwin. Everything that interferes with it. To keep 
engagements with one's wife, antidotes many of the stings 
of matrimony. 

Watson. (Beflectively.) Ah, the bliss of not being 
wise, what joy of knowing can compare with it? 

(Vose-Taylor regards Sherwin with narrowed eyes, 
as if trying to understand lohat manner of man 
he is.) 



THE TESTING 21 

Sherwin. {Bowing to Watson, answers with half seri- 
ous, half mocking gravity.) The joy of having friends. 
All the world is with a man when he's right, but his friends 
alone are with him when he's wrong. (With a little inclu- 
sive nod of his head.) And I can depend on you, boys, as 
to Zolatel, the lawn fete, et al.? 

EIablton. Of course. 

Watson. {With an inclusive wave of his hand.) Sure. 
Aren't we comrades? 

Sherwin. Ah! Yes, comrades, brothers. 

(Sherwin, talcing queer little side steps, with fan- 
tastic Tcnee bends and flings, lifting sTcirts of 
coat, sings while Watson Tceeps time with hand 
claps and joins in the chorus.) 

Sherwin. {Singing.) "And we'll all love each other 
and each man will be a brother, and we'll have no trouble 
any more, any more, and we'll have no trouble any more." 

(Karlton and Vose-Taylor laugh as Sherwin 
finishes with a flourish and hend.) 

Karlton. if you'd give your cock-a-hoop at Kate's fete, 
Flossy, you'd take the honors from Zolatel herself. 

Sherwin. {Reflectively, as he seats himself lightly on 
the arm of a chair.) Ah! the Golden Zolatel. 

Karlton. Kate asked me this afternoon who gave her 
that name. 

Sherwin. And you said? 

Karlton. That I could not say. 

Sherwin. I didn't use my originality when I gave her 
the name. She is a golden woman. She would be flawless 
if she would but share herself, but she never will, till she 
loves. There is great love, lesser love, and love that the 
devil himself disowns. The love of the Zolatel will be the 
finite of the infinite love, that maintains itself, that it may 
hold worlds in place. 

(Watson maJces a megaphone of his hands and calls 
as if to a person at a distance, in an anxious 
voice.) 

Watson. Come back, Flossy! Come back! Danger! 
You're in up to your chin. 

Sherwin. {Rises lightly.) Here I am. {Monocle 
dangles as he ta'kes several little side steps with Tcnee bends. 
As he halts.) I must be going, or Old Robber Time will 
have me hopelessly held up. 

Karlton. Let's make a bunch start. Which way, Wat- 
son? 

Watson. To Sherry's. 



22 THE TESTING 

(Vose-Tayloe drops a half -burnt cigarette in ash 
receiver on table. Takes hat from Jackson. 
Halts as he turns toward c, and glances with 
lingering look at Zolatel's photograph on 
mantel. ) 

Karlton. {To Watson.) Come with us, Dick. We'll 
drop off at Turner's and my chauffeur can take you down 
to Sherry's. 

Watson. Good. 

Karlton. {As he turns to go, speaks to Jackson in low 
tone. What he says is not heard, as all are moving to go 
out curtain descends.) 

ACT DROP. 



ACT. II. 

Scene — The scene represents the lawn and grounds of the 
country place of the Sherwins, near Tarrytown-on-Eud- 
son, in spring. In the distance there are fruit trees in 
flower. Other trees, with flowering shrubs intermingled, 
are scattered about, r. u. a fountain, beyond which the 
full moon is shining. Japanese lanterns are so placed 
that portions of the laxvn are in shadow, maTcing a well- 
composed picture. R. front of stage a gay-colored tent 
with gypsy on low seat at door. l. u. Tcioslc covered with 
vines, with red and lohite floivers among their opulent 
foliage. KiosTc arranged as a miniature stage with drop 
curtain down. It is placed diagonal to face r. of stage 
and audience. Small tables with chairs and rustic seats. 
Tables for serving refreshments partly screened by 
palms. Guests moving about, chatting and laughing.) 

Enter Vose-Taylor with Watson. 

Mrs. Sherwin. So glad to see you. (Smiles, and gives 

hand first to Vose-Taylor and then to Watson. SpeaTcing 

in loicered voice, as gentleman and lady come toivard them 

from beyond fountain.) Wait, both of you, just a moment. 

Mr. Page. How do you do? 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Extending her hand.) How do you 
do, Mr. Page? How well you are looking, Mrs. Page. So 
delighted to see you both. The Wilsons were just inquir- 
ing after you. There they are, over by the kiosk, talking 
to Maurice. 

{As Mr. and Mrs. Page pass on to join the group 
where Mr. Sherwin is standing, Mrs. Sherwin 
halts serving man passing tvith refreshments.) 
Mrs. Sherwin. (To serving man.) Say to Mr. Sher- 
win to 'phone Mr. Karlton as soon as he can and ask when 
he will be here. (Addressing Watson and Vose-Taylor, 
who have been chatting together while waiting.) Isn't this 
a perfect night? Of course I selected a night when the 
moon would be full, but one can never tell that it will 
shine. 

(Miss Latrave appears with Dayton from beyond 
fountain. Mrs. Sherwin bows and smiles in a 
familiar way to Dayton, who bows to Vose- 
Taylor a7id Watson, and, passing on, joins 
group at left of stage. Miss Latrave halts by 
Mrs. Sherwin.) 
23 



24 THE TESTING 

Mrs. Sherwin (Addressing Miss Latrave.) I'm so 
glad you're here, Helen. I want you to see that Jules 
(Jays her hand lightly on Vose-Taylor 's arm) has a good 
time. (As Karlton approaches from beyond fountain.) 
Ah! there's Jack, at last. Now all of you go to Miss 
Cavalack. She doesn't seem to be enjoying the person 
she is with. 

(Miss Latrave, Vose-Taylor and Watson cross 
stage and join Miss Cavalack, who is with a 
middle-aged man l. u. c.) 

Karlton. (As he joins Mrs. Sherwin, speaTcing in low 
voice, and looTdng with inclusive glance about grounds.) 
Things seem to be going well, Kate. The weather certainly 
leaves nothing to desire. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Yes, the weather is an right, but where 
have you been? I thought you would never come. I just 
sent Maurice to look you up by 'phone. (Anxiously.) 
Did you see Zolatel, and will she be sure to be here? 

Karlton. (Speaking in a low tone and ivith slight 
impatience.) I saw her; of course she will be here, though 
she will not come out just as you have planned, but be pre- 
pared for a surprise. 

(Enter gentleman and lady with daughter. Karl- 
ton crosses stage and joins Vose-Taylor, Wat- 
son, Miss Latrave and Miss Cavalack.) 
Mr. Dunbar. How do you do, Mrs. Sherwin? 
Mrs. dHERwiN. (Smiling and shaTcing hands.) How do 
you do, Mr. Dunbar? 

Mrs. Dunbar. How do you do, Mrs. Sherwin? 
Mrs. Sherwin. How do you do, Mrs. Dunbar and Miss 
Dunbar? (Gives hand to each in turn.) So glad to see 
you. 

Mr. Dunbar. (Looking about.) What a charming 
scene. 

Mrs. Sherwin. It is pretty, but I can take no credit 
for it. Jack Karlton planned everything. (To Miss 
Dunbar.) How nice you look. It is good to be young 
and pretty and looking one's best. (With a smile and a 
wise look.) Southwick is here. He was asking some time 
ago if you had arrived and said something about the river. 
If you do go there, be sure and be back for Zolatel. 

(Mr., Mrs. and Miss Dunbar move away. Mr. 
Sherwin joins his wife, and they stand for a 
moment in low-toned conversation, then other 
guests arrive. Mrs. Sherwin stands talking 
first to one and then another.) 
Watson. (Aside to Karlton.) Vose-Taylor has his 
hair in training to-night. 



THE TESTING 25 

Karlton. (Smiling.) Yes, and I find his brains have 
been in training for some time. He knows quite a number 
of things he hasn't been told recently. 

Miss Latrave. (Addressing Karlton.) The grounds 
are perfect. Permit me to congratulate you. 

Karlton. Thanks (with a significant glance), your ap- 
proval is my reward. 

Miss Latrave. (Smiling, with a little half hoio of 
acJcnoivledgment and a motion of her head toward the 
gypsy's tent.) That tent with the Gypsy Queen before it 
is a charming note. We were just going for a glimpse into 
the future. Will you come with us? 

Karlton. (LooJcing at her with a quizzical smile.) So 
you are not content with the blissful present, and would 
question as to the future? 

(Mrs. Sherwin, ivith Mr. Sherwin, grave and 

seemingly absent minded attending, smiles as 

they pass her. Miss Latrave, Vose-Taylor 

a7id Karlton, with Watson and Miss Cava- 

LACK, halt before gypsy. Orchestra plays a 

weird Hungarian air. Mme. Alplanalb rises 

with slow dignity, draws dagger from her belt 

and readies out to tal'e Miss Latrave 's hand. 

Miss Latrave. (Indicating Miss Cavalack.) Her 

hand first, please. 

Mme. Alplanalb. I choose to look first in your hand. 

Miss Latrave. (Extending open palm. Gypsy takes 

it and crosses it with dagger.) It seems I have no choice 

but to obey. 

Mme. XJ.LPLANALB. (Bending over palm, scrutinizes it 
closely and frowns. Then speaks slowly, as if she were 
reading.) Already the Devil has done seeding here. One 
who loves you, as so-called loves goes, is ever in your mind. 
Your heart is his, though you strive to gain the heart of 
another. But fate will have its way. One who belongs to 
you will give you keen anxiety, but, though your plans mis- 
carry, larger plans will take you to a good degree of hap- 
piness and those not yet in the world, will bring you joy. 
(Drops Miss Latrave 's hand, and, taking Miss 
Cavalack 's, crosses it with dagger point.) 
Miss Cavalack. (As Mme. Alplanalb takes her hand.) 
I'm sure fate holds for me nothing more than such rubs 
as most get. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Looking intently in her hand and 
speaking with slow emphasis.) Fate holds for you what 
it holds for few. Your life will be as a river which re- 
freshes and gladdens. The love which has claimed you 
knows no jealousy nor uncharitableness. The best life 
has to give will be yours. 



26 THE TESTING 

(Beleases Miss Cavalack's hand and takes the hand 
of Vose-Taylor.) 

Mme. Alplanalb. (After looking in Vose-Taylor's 
hand and crossing it with her dagger, takes a deep breath.) 
Do what they will, they cannot take your own from yon, if 
you will do your part. Follow the lead of your own impres- 
sions. Take no heed of the assertions of others. Both in 
time and destiny there are two women near you. One will 
hold your heart, nay more (deepening her voice and speak- 
ing with emphasis) your very soul. This will be no com- 
mon love, but the great love, which cannot change. You 
will soon enter Tartarean darkness, but beyond it there is 
for you the perfect day. 

(Sherwin has sauntered away from his wife and 
joined the group at the gypsy's tent.) 

Sherwin. (Tapping Vose-Taylor lightly on the 
shoulder.) Congratulations, my boy. Though, as destiny 
gives you the perfect day, there's not much left for the 
rest of us. Still (cocking his head and pursing his lips, 
raising his right hand and frowning in mock gravity), a 
perfect day should be followed by a perfect night, — that 
may yet be ours. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Gravely offering to take Sherwin 's 
hand.) Shall I look in your hand? 

Sherwin. No, no thanks! I couldn't endure just now 
to know more about myself than I do. (Turning to Wat- 
son.) Now here's a man whose legal mind leads him to 
probe things. He's waiting to hear what you have to tell 
him. 

Watson. (Smiling.) So good of you to say that I, a 
rattling empty, have a legal mind. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Extending her hand to Watson.) 
Shall I see if that is true? 

Watson. (Slightly shaking his head.) It isn't worth 
while. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Dropping her hand.) As you will. 

Miss Latrave. (Raising index finger and smiling.) See 
here, Dick, play fair. You've heard what's going to hap- 
pen to us ; now it 's your turn, and we 're not going to let 
you off. 

Watson. (Hesitates a moment, then extends his hand.) 
All right. Here goes. It's a fool, that can't change his 
mind. 

Miss Latrave. (With a questioning, up look and a 
smile.) And why? 

Watson. Hasn't any minn to change. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Taking Watson's hand and after 
crossing it with the dagger, examines it several minutes in 



THE TESTING 27 

silence.) The sea ripples and sparkles in the sun, but a 
long line does not plumb it. All see the surface; most 
people know only what they see. Few understand how 
much you mean. The woman you love does, and she will 
always be the one woman in the world for you. You have 
friends whose lives are approaching dangerous rapids. 
You will help them to make their passage in safety. 

(Mme. Alplanalb gently releases Watson's hand 
and turns to Karlton.) 

Watson. Come on, Karlton, we are all waiting to hear 
about the big things fate has up her sleeve for you. 

Mme. Alplanalb. (Taking Karlton 's hand and cross- 
ing it with dagger. Touches his open palm lightly with 
her finger tips.) An arrow that hits a mark at which it is 
not aimed. You are entangled by others in a way which 
threatens the most serious results. (Pauses a moment.) 
But you will be extricated and your life will be as it has 
been, with additions. You will get all that's coming to 
you, including some things you do not want. The woman 
who (pauses a little), let us say, cares for you, will be 
your wife. 

(Three stroTces of a soft-toned hell are heard. Mme. 
Alplanalb drops Karlton 's hand and slowly 
sinlcs down on the low seat at the tent door. 
The chatting and laughter cease and most of 
those on the stage seat themselves. A few re- 
main standing. The curtain before the MosTc 
rises, revealing a room hung in oriental silh. 
Boor L. Window c. Tcioslc stage. Window cur- 
tained in sillc draped in such a way that a 
glimpse of the sun nearing the horizon is seen 
through it. R. u. Jciosh stage a silk-draped 
couch. Near it a table on which is a crystal 
bowl filled with large Damascea roses. Ma- 
HOMMED, dressed as an Oriental of his time, re- 
clining on couch. Back of him a slave ivaves a 
large fan of plumy feathers. At side of couch, 
on ottoman, Zolatel, as Ayesha, is sitting. 
She is dressed in fioiving robe of blue, em- 
broidered in pale tints of pink, green and white.) 
Ayesha. (Glancing toward the window.) The sun is 
nearing the edge of the world, but I feel the gladness of 
the morning (looks up into Mohammed's face), for you 
are here. 

Mahommed. (Laying his arm about her shoulders and 
looking into her eyes.) Your roseate cheek (caresses her 
cheek lightly with the tips of his fingers) is as the dawn, 
your lips like the pomegranates I saw in my wondrous vi- 



28 THE TESTIISG 

sion of Paradise. The brightness of new day is in your 
look. {Bends over her and caresses her hair.) My love! 
My love! 

Ayesha. (Putting her arm about his neclc and looking 
fondly into his face.) My lover, prophet, lord, honored of 
God and man. In all the roundness of the world, there's 
none compare with you. It joys my soul that the angel, 
when he took from out your breast your heart and cleansed 
it utterly, did then restore it, that it may beat for me 
above all others. You do love me, love me better than 
any one in the world? 

Mahommed. (Dismissing slave with wave of hand, who, 
walking backward, goes out D. L. Then drawing Ayesha 
toward him.) Yes, I love you, love you beyond words. 

Ayesha. You love me more than all the others? Better 
than you loved Cadijah? 

Mahommed. (Removing his arm quickly from her 
shoulder, sits upright, clinches right hand and ivith em- 
phatic gesture exclaims.) By Heavens, no! Cadijah be- 
lieved in me, undoubting, when all others doubted. The 
place in my heart that was hers, is hers. (Reflectively.) 
There is a love in time but not of it; a love as eternal as 
the existence of the soul. 

Ayesha. (Resignedly, shrugging her shoulders.) Ah, 
well! Cadijah is noi here, she is no longer in the world. 

Mahommed. (With emphasis.) Cadijah is in Paradise. 

Ayesha. That cannot be. 

Mahommed. (Drawing back, looks at Ayesha with 
froivning displeasure.) What do you dare to mean? 

Ayesha. (Arches her brows and speaks slowly and in 
a soft voice.) Cadijah is alone, waiting. Paradise cannot 
be Paradise for one who waits alone. (With fond em- 
phasis.) How good it is, that you are here, my Lord. 

Mahommed. (Smiling, and again looking with pleased 
affection into her face.) Yes, here with thee, now best 
beloved of any in the world. 

Ayesha. (Raising her face fondly to his.) You do 
love me best of any now in the world? (Speaking reflect- 
ively.) Wliatever is in eternity, in time there's naught 
but no7v. The ever present is ki^ig of time. 

Mahommed. (Kissing her brow and lips.) Sweet phil- 
osopher of the now. 

Ayesha. And will you grant me now, your best beloved 
wife, one wish? (Lays her cheek to his.) 

Mahommed. (Looking into her eyes.) Eose of my life, 
have you a wish ungratified? What is it? I would there 
should not be a single one. 

Ayesha. (Sits erect and bends eagerly toward him.) 
And you will grant my wish? (Clasps her hands as might 
a joyous child.) And you will do it without delay? 



THE TESTING 29 

Mahommed. (Smiling fondly.) How can I say how 
soon, until I know your wish? What is it, my flower? 

Ayesha. (Sitting erect and speaking eagerly.) This, 
my Lord: I would have you add me, your Ayesha, to those 
you've named, as the perfect women of all time. 

Mahommed. (Astonished, and as if doubting that he 
heard aright.) You! a perfect woman? Surely you are 
jesting; that's not your wish. 

Ayesha. I am not jesting, it is my wish. You've said, 
many times, I'm perfect in your eyes. Let the world see 
me as you do. 

Mahommed. (Gently and sadly.) I would that I could 
grant your wish, but I cannot change the rose tree to a 
palm. 

Ayesha. There is no need for you to change the rose 
tree to the palm. What you say is. You have said that 
Asia, wife of Pharoah, Miriam, daughter of Iram, Cadijah, 
who was thy wife, and Fatima, thy daughter, are the four 
perfect women of all time. Now say that Ayesha, thy 
beloved wife, is one of the five perfect women who have 
lived. 

Mahommed. (Gravely and with a sigh.) Ah! Ayesha, 
those who seek to be what they are not, mar hopelessly 
what they are. Your imperfection is your charm; it is 
your perfection. 

Ayesha. (Pouting and displeased.) I would have my 
name with those the world honors, because you honor them. 

Mahommed. (Sitting quicTcly erect and speaTcing with 
grave earnestness, yet tenderly.) Fairest flower among 
women, you know not what you ask. Honor and power, as 
the mirage of the desert, allure to betray. 

Ayesha. (Still pouting and with gentle insistence.) 
Just my name among those you count as perfect, how could 
that betray me? 

Mahommed. Ah! Blossom of ephemeral joy, from what 
you know, you learn not. My favor, has it not brought you 
slander's wounds? To rise in the least above our fellows 
is to be a mark for envy 's poison dart. 

Ayesha. (Placing her clasped hands on his breast.) 
But your power can shield me from all hurt. 

Mahommed. (Speaking slowly, thoughtfully and sadly.) 
My power! How little power has any man. There is 
much that even angels cannot do. I may be called to-night 
to the heaven I have seen. Tragedy oft is the portion of 
the chosen. It is only when I am with you, that I escape 
its shadow; that I get respite from the crush of destiny. 

Ayesha. (With a look of gladness and a smile.) And 
do I give you rest? 

Mahommed. Yes, such as no one else can give. (Sud- 
denly drawing himself erect and speaking with slow 



30 THE TESTING- 

vehemence.) Ayesha, which shall it be, your name as one 
of the perfect women, or will you be, as now, my help and 
love? 

Ayesha. (Leaning toward him with raised face, pout- 
ing, yet pleased.) Both, I would be both. 

Mahommed. That cannot be. 

Ayesha. (Thoughtfully.) And yet, if I were taken 
from your life, 'twould be no more than the closing of 
water broken by a prow. 

Mahommed. (Placing his hands caressingly on her 
shoulders and looJcing down into her eyes.) Nay, dear one, 
it would not be just the closing of water broken by a prow. 
'Twould be, taking from the desert the oasis which refreshes 
and saves. 

Ayesha. (Looking into Mahommed's face toith a glad 
smile.) Am I that? Do I truly help you so? Do I? 

Mahommed. (Gravely and with a touch of pathos.) Yes, 
and will you take your help from me, Ayesha? 

Ayesha. (Passionately throwing her arms about him.) 
No, no! a thousand times no! I love you, love you! 'Tis 
the greatest good to be a good to you. 

(Light has slowly faded from window, leaving the 
room in the semi-darkness of twilight.) 

Mahommed. (Taking her face between his palms and 
regarding her ivith passionate fondness.) My own, my one 
of all in the world. Yours of a truth is the great love, for 
it transmutes the dross of self into the gold of sacrifice. 
Through it my tender rose becomes my sheltering palm. 
(Drops left hand from shoulder while with right he caresses 
her hair.) Tragedy, as I have said, is ever ready to tear 
the body from the soul of God's chosen (pauses a moment) 
but it cannot touch the soul. I do God's work, and that 
work and I will live when centuries have grown gray. 

Mahommed. (Seems to listen, then drawing Ayesha 
to him.) The call to prayer. I must to the mosque. 

Ayesha. (Looking with passionate gaze into his face.) 
Go not, beloved. 

Mahommed. Prayer is the key to Paradise, dear one, 
and must ever be turning in the lock, lest rust gather and 
we enter not. 

Ayesha. (Touching his cheek caressingly.) Just once, 
let duty call unheard. 

Mahommed. Nay, my love, he who leads must ever to 
the fore. 

Ayesha. (With a sigh.) Oft, and oft again, I have 
wished that you were less, that you might to me be more. 

Mahommed. (With grave sadness.) But were I less, 
e'en you might love me less. 

Ayesha. I could not, tor you are you. 



THE TESTING 31 

Mahommed. My precious one (pauses and looks thought- 
fully into space), so long as love gives life through the 
world, your name will live with mine because of your 
great love. (Turns reluctantly from her.) But I must 
away. 

Ayesha. (Laying her tivo hands close about Mahom- 
med 's neck and speaking in pleading tones.) You will 
come again, to-night? 

Mahommed. Yes, when darkness has quite curtained in 
the world, I'll join you here. 'Till then, adieu, my love. 
(Takes Ayesha 's hand from his shoulder and presses it 
to his lips.) Adieu, adieu. 

(Curtain, kiosk stage. Long applause.) 

(Guests move about and chat. Befreshments are 
served. A group gathers at gypsy's tent. 
Center of stage unoccupied. Orchestra plays a 
waits in slow time. Zolatel with pale pink and 
ivhite draperies caught over her arms and float- 
ing cloud-like about her dress of diaphanous 
blue, waltzes slowly forward, waving her drap- 
eries with a loinged movement in time to the 
music. She is followed by Miss Latrave and 
Miss Cavalack. Sherwin, masked and dis- 
guised in such a way as to be unrecognizable, 
dances in among the three women, with side 
steps and knee bends, same as in, Karlton's 
apartment. He attempts to take Zolatel as a 
partner. Slie eludes him. and also Watson and 
Vose-Taylor, and is taken by Karlton. Sher- 
win then essays to take Miss Cavalack as a 
partner, but Watson steps in and they waltz 
together. Sherv\^in then seeks unsuccessfully to 
secure Miss Latrave, who is taken by Vose- 
Taylor. Sherwin then takes an imaginary 
partner, amid laughter and exclamations of, 
" Who is it? Is he a feature of the new play?" 
Sherwin goes in and out among the dancers, 
crosses the stage, and makes his exit near gypsy's 
tetit. Mr. Page is with Mrs. Sherwin.) 

Mr. Page. (As the dance continues.) Who in the world 
was the masker? 

Mrs. Sherwin. I haven't the slightest idea. Jack told 
me to be prepared for a surprise, but I wasn't. I had for- 
gotten all about it. I didn't know a thing of the dance. 
Isn't it pretty? 

Mr. Page. Yes, and that masker certainly is a gloom 
chaser. 



32 THE TESTING 

(As ZoLATEL and the other dancers are opposite Mrs. 
Sherwin the music ceases. Blanid Dwyer 
steps out and deftly removes pinTc and white 
drapery from Zolatel's arms and disappears 
among trees u. s. r. Zolatel greets Mrs. Sher- 
win, Mr. Page and others. 

Mr. Page. How well you play at love making, but is the 
whole of * ' The Prophet of the Desert ' ' so serious as the 
scene you gave us? 

Zolatel. {Sweetly and with a little smile.) No, there's 
in it a little of the saving salt of humor. That comes with 
the camel train and the drivers. 

Mrs. Sherwin. What! Eeal live camels on the stage? 
How I wish we could have had them here. 

Miss Latrave. Are there really to be camels in your 
new play? 

Zolatel. {With gentle gravity, in which there is yet a 
glint of humor.) You must come and see. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Do tell vis who that masked dancer was? 
Of course you know. 

Zolatel. Yes, and I wish I could tell you, but you 
know we are bound to keep professional secrets inviolate. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Why sJiould he mind? His dancing 
was great. The whole thing was delightful. {In confi- 
dential tone.) So good of you to add it, as a crowning 
touch. 

Zolatel. I'm glad you liked it. It is a pleasure to do 
things for the love of doing them. 

(Karlton joins receiving group with the elder Endi- 

COTT.) 

Karlton. Mademoiselle, permit me to present Mr. Endi- 
cott. (Zolatel hoivs and smiles. Karlton tU7-ns to Vose- 
Taylor, w/io is standing near Zolatel.) I had the pleas- 
ure of making my cousin acquainted with Mademoiselle at 
my apartment some days ago. 

Zolatel. {Turning with a smile to Vose-Taylor.) 
Yes, we are friends. 

Vose-Taylor. {Bowing.) I am honored. 

(Mr. Sherwin saunters toward them from opposite 
side of stage.) 
Mrs. Sherwin. There's Maurice. {Addressing serving 
man standing near her.) Ask Mr. Sherwin to come here. 

{Man goes to Sherwin, and speaTcs to him; Sher- 
win joins his wife. 
Mrs. Sherwin. Mademoiselle, permit me to present my 
husband. (Sherwin hows with grave formality. Zolatel 
greets him as she has others.) 



THE TESTING 33 

(Watson glances at Vose-Taylor, and an amused 
look passes between them.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. Maurice is such a book worm that he 
doesn't know much about the theater, but I insisted on tak- 
ing him to see you. I told him it was simply ignorant not 
to know what such an artist as you were doing. For once 
he was not bored, which with him is high praise. 

(Watson, and Vose-Taylor turn away to conceal 
a smile. Mr. and Mrs. Dunbar come from 
R. s. and join Mrs. Sherwin, who speaks to 
them in a low tone. What she says is not heard.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Addressing Zolatel, who has been 
talking with Karlton.) Mademoiselle, Mrs. Dunbar, Mr. 
Dunbar, Miss Dunbar. 

(Zolatel greets each cordially.) 

Mrs. Dunbar. I want to tell you how much we enjoyed 
that scene from your new play. It is so unhackneyed. I 
can scarcely wait to see the rest of it. 

Zolatel. I'm glad you like it and hope the play will 
please you. 

Mrs. Dunbar. I'm sure it will. 

(Blanid Dwyer appears R. u. c. with Zolatel 's 
wraps. ) 

Zolatel. I see my maid coming for me, and I have no 
choice but to go. 

Mrs. Sherwin. That maid of yours is a perfect 
Cerberus. 

Zolatel. (With a little shrug of her shoulders and a 
smile.) Oh, no. Blan is just my comrade-keeper. I can't 
remember when I didn't obey her. (Turning to Vose- 
Taylor with a whimsical look and smile.) But I do some- 
times elude her. Pray help me to do so now. I want to 
see the gypsy before Blan gets possession of me. 

Vose-Taylor. Delighted. Her gypsy highness has al- 
ready told me, in highly picturesque symbols, of things 
which are, and are to be. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Let's all go. I want to know what 
Maurice is going to do when he's learned all there is to 
know. 

Watson. As there's nothing in life so interesting as 
other people's business, I think we, who have already been 
soothed, will attend. 

( fVith Zolatel and Vose-Taylor in the lead, all 

move down the stage to gypsy's tent. All the 

men regard Zolatel with jealous interest. As 

she passes down the stage she seems to be 

3 



34 THE TESTING 

deeply interested in what Vose-Taylor is say- 
ing. Blanid seats herself on the edge of a 
chair up stage, looking grim and a little anxious, 
and watches Zolatel solicitously.) 

Vose-Tayloe. {Bending toward her and speaking in a 
low tone.) Ayesha's decision would be yours. Is it not 
so? 

Zolatel. (Raising her face to Vose-Tatlok's and meet- 
ing his eyes ivith a look of deep delight.) You felt that? 
I thougut you would. When we first met I saw you knew 
things. {As they near the gypsy's tent.) But tell me, 
what are the gypsy's forecasts like? Do they signify? 

Vose-Taylor. In a way they seem to, but they are so 
figurative that it's not easy to determine their meaning. 

Zolatel. {Halting and speaking with hesitation.) I 
really should not keep Blan waiting. 

Vose-Taylor. It'll be only a matter of a few minutes 
and it really is interesting. {Bending totvard her and 
speaking in a low voice.) And I can then be near you a 
little longer. 

(Zolatel arches her hrows and smiles and they, 
with the others, halt at gypsy's tent.) 

Mrs. Sherwin. {Addressing gypsy.) Whatever you do, 
Mme. Aiplanalb, give Mademoiselle here a brilliant future. 

Mme. Alplanalb. {With grave dignity.) I have no 
power to bestow; I but interpret the possible. {Turning 
to Zolatel.) It will be both a pleasure and an honor to 
tell Mademoiselle what I can see. 

Zolatel. {Draiving back.) After Mrs. Sherwin. 

Mrs, Sherwin. No, no, I couldn't think of preceding 
you. 

Zolatel. As a favor? I ask it as a favor. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Of course, if you put it that way. 

(Mrs. Sherwin extends her hand.) 

Mme. Alplanalb. {Takes Mrs. Sherwin 's hand, crosses 
it with dagger. Looks intently at palm and smiles a little. 
Speaking slowly and impressively.) You are exceptional 
in being consistent with yourself. You are not forever 
plunging into depths to bring up — ^mostly muck. That you 
see no more than your associates would have you, makes 
you beloved and a source of comfort, nay of help, to those 
about you. 

Sherwin. {Who is standing near his wife. Bowing 
urith grave courtesy to her and then to Mme. Alplanalb.) 
And this is why I love. So satisfying to know. 

Watson. Which suggests a new beatitude. Blessed is 
the woman who does not see more than her world would 
have her know. 



THE TESTING 35 

Mme. Alplanalb. {Gently relinquisMng Mrs. Sher- 
win's hand and addressing Mr. Sherwin.) Will you now 
permit me to interpret for you? 

Sherwin. {Shal-ing his head and with a deprecating 
motion of his two hands.) It would be a vain repetition, 
since Mrs. Sherwin and I are one. Pray proceed with 
Mademoiselle. 

Exit Sherwin very quietly hacTc of tent. 

Mrs. Sherwin. Yes, do. We all want to hear of her 
future triumphs. 

Mme. Alplanalb. {Addressing Zolatel.) May I now 
interpret for you? 

Zolatel. {As she extends her hand.) Here is hoping 
you will be able to tell me things as good as you told Mrs. 
Sherwin, for what can be better than to be useful to one's 
world? {Bending toward Mme. Alplanalb and speaTcing 
in a low tone.) Please be brief. 

(Dayton, unobserved, has advanced and is standing 
bach of Zolatel. He moves nearer and regards 
her with a sinister looTc.) 

Mme. Alplanalb. {Crosses Zolatel 's hand with dag- 
ger and lools at it intently for several moments.) You 
were born in the house of the soul. A burden most heavy 
has been your heritage, but it has no more appeared to rest 
upon you than the weight of worlds appear, as they move 
in their orbits. {Pauses and loolcs intently in Zolatel 's 
palm.) The hidden is to be revealed. (Zolatel starts a 
little and Dayton regards her Iteenly with eager triumph.) 
But joy will follow, and with it will come the peace which 
is beyond reasoning. Understanding as you do alike the 
wise and unwise, you will ever be a comrade of both. A 
great change comes suddenly. Events follow each other in 
such quick succession, that a short time will seem as years. 
Follow no aavice, be unreasonable, listen to the voice of 
your heart and soul. 

{Orchestra interrupts Mme. Alplanalb. The waltz 
played is the same as tvhen Zolatel appeared 
after the scene from ' ' The Prophet of the 
Desert." As she ceases speaking the masked 
dancer enters from wing near where Zolatel is 
standing, makes a little detour, seises the gypsy, 
whirls her, seemingly against her will, past center 
of stage. Releasing her to take a few side steps 
with knee bends. She at once makes good her 
escape. After a moment of surprised search 
for his partner, the masked dancer again takes 
an imaginary partner, and as he proceeds, 



36 THE TESTING 

ZoLATEL and Vose-Tatloe lead a waltz which 
becomes general. The maslced dancer continues 
to move in and out among them. Vose-Taylor, 
as he and Zolatel are in the center of the 
stage, bends his head and says something to 
her, in a low tone. She raises her face to his, 
smiles and nods. As they approach Blanid 
DwYER, who stands grimly waiting, the curtain 
descends while all are still dancing.) 

ACT DEOP 



ACT III. 

Scene — Mlle. Zolatel's salon. A large room in which 
there is much white and gold. It is at once dignified 
and dainty. Wide door r. c. opening into reception room 
in which can ie seen palms and many flowers. Window 
L. c, curtained in delicate lace, through tvhich the sun- 
shine filters. Sofa l., near it a tea table on which is 
handsome service. Piano h. c. There is a large music 
rack and several stringed instruments in cases near it. 
A large table a little below center of room, on which are 
writing materials, etc. A high-backed carved wood chair 
at left of table. Door r. l. stage, which opens up stage, 
so placed that when partly open a person standing in it 
can be seen by audience but not by persons on the stage. 
Cheval glass R. u. corner of room. Fireplace below cheval 
glass R. Before it is a gold-embroidered screen. On 
mantel is a winged victory, a French clock, and a full- 
length panel portrait of a beautiful woman. Easy chairs 
placed about irregularly. 

Time — About eleven o'clock in the morning 

(Discovered, Blanid Dwyer, in cap and apron, so 
dressed that she appears prim and straight 
bodied, is moving about arranging room. Pauses 
by table on which is writing material. Takes 
up ink pad. Stands with it in her hand and 
draws a deep breath.) 

Blanid. It's wishin' I am that some one like Misther 
Dick Watson (pauses), only different, could be helpin' me 
care fer me poor baby till we be gettin' the misther 's black 
debt paid. 

(Voices and laughter heard from direction of recep- 
tion room. Enter Zolatel in riding habit, with 
gloves still on and crop in her hand, followed 
by Watson in riding costume.) 

Zolatel. (With uptilted head, flushed and gay.) 
What a glorious ride! I was fagged when we started, but 
now (raising her skirt lightly with fingers of left hand, 
flourishes crop with three little up waves of right hand and 
takes a light dancing step), the world is mine. (Takes off 
gloves and tosses them to Blanid and seats herself in carved 
wood chair left of table. Watson seats himself on other 
side of table.) Now, Blan, a bit of breakfast, quick. I'm 
37 



38 THri TESTING 

famished. {Addressing Watson.) How good Isabel Cava- 
lack was to send you to take me out tbis morning. It was 
just the thing to pick me up after last night's hard work. 

Watson. She has a way of doing the right thing in the 
right way. 

ZoLATEL. {Very earnestly.) You are fortunate, Dick, 
to have Isabel Cavalack's love. 

Watson. {Gravely.) Beyond anything I shall ever 
deserve. 

ZoLATEL. {ShaHng her head.) No, she's just as fortu- 
nate as you are. You belong to each other by the laws 
no man can put asunder, iiut Belle Cavalack is fine. I 
don't know another woman, not one, who would send her 
fiance to take out {pauses a little, speaks sadly) an actress, 
as you have taken me out this morning. {Changes tone to 
eager inquiry.) But tell me, what does she think of the 
new play? I care for her opinion. 

Watson. She thinks, as I do, that the play is all right, 
and she said last night that your work was superb. She 
seemed to feel what it cost you, in all ways, to do what you 
did. 

ZoLATEL. {Eeflectively.) And yet, she has known me 
but a short time, and we have had no opportunity for 
intimacy. {Leaning suddenly toward Watson and speak- 
ing with earnestness and feeling.) Dick! do you ever 
think we've lived before, many times perhaps, not vaguely, 
but really, in a body as we are living now? 

Watson. Yes, I've thought of it. 

ZoLATEL. {With elbow on table and her hand to her 
cheek, speaking slowly and reflectively.) When I first met 
Isabel Cavalack, you and one other, it seemed to me that 
I knew each of you intimately and I cannot divest myself 
of the conviction that I really have, at some time and some- 
where, known each of you, better than I've known you in 
the life we are living. 

Watson. {Smiling.) Then you think we are century- 
old acquaintances? 

ZoLATEL. Yes {reflectively and looking into space with 
apparent unseeing gaze), and that the lives we've lived 
were grades in a great school of living. If it 's true, it 
makes plain how it was that Mozart, as a little child, played 
so wonderfully, and how we know things we haven't learned 
in this life. 

Enter Blanid Dwyer d. c, from reception room. 

Blanid. Will ye have breakfast served here. Made- 
moiselle? 

Zolatel. {Quickly sitting erect and speaking with gay 

emphasis.) Yes, right here. I'm ravenous. 



THE TESTING 39 

(ZoLATEL indicates table at which she and Watson 
are sitting and Blanid proceeds to clear a space 
between them.) 

Watson. (Laughing.) The famished philosopher is 
very human. 

Zolatel. Yes (smiling and turning her head from right 
to left and looMng at herself in a whimsical way), this 
body, while only an incident in the great whole of life, is 
a most demanding incident, — while it lasts. 

Exit Blanid d. c. 

(Enter serving man with large tray, followed by 
Blanid.) 

Zolatel. (To waiter.) You may go; Blanid will at- 
tend. 

Blanid. Shall I be pourin' th' coffee? 

Zolatel. Yes, I'm helpless from hunger. 

(Blanid pours coffee and passes rolls and other food. 
In Zolatel 's cup she puts cream and sugar.) 

Zolatel. (Buttering bit of roll and sipping coffee.) 
How good these rolls are. Be sure, Blan, and tell them to 
bring the same kind every morning. 

Blanid. Sure, th ' others they 've been bringin ' arre th ' 
same. 

Watson. (Laughing.) Appetite is the best Mnd, as 
well as the best sauce. 

Zolatel. (LooJcing at roll.) Who would have believed 
it, it is the same. ('Phone bell rings.) 

Exit Blanid door r. c. 

Blanid. (Heard at 'phone in reception room.) Yes 
(pause of moment), I'll be seein', sorr. 

Enter Blanid, door r. c. 

Blanid. (Smiling grimly.) I'm asked to be sayin' to 
ye, Mademoiselle, that a raeent acquaintance, by name 
Sherwin, Misther P. Maurice Sherwin, craves a brief 
audgence about a momentious matter. 

(Zolatel and Watson laugh.) 
Zolatel. Tell them to show Mr. Sherwin up. 

Exit Blanid, door r. c. 
Blanid. (Heard from reception room, at 'phone.) 
Plaise be showin' Misther Sherwin up. 

Zolatel. I wonder what brings Flossy at this hour? 
Watson. Hard to say. (With a smile and a shrug.) 
There's no one like him, but himself, and, judging from 



40 THE TESTING 

the diversity of his gifts and ways, he 's swung far and 
wide in your circle of many lives. 

ZoLATEL. Flossy 's coming reminds me that I haven't 
seen Jack Karlton for more than a week, excepting in the 
audience last night. 

Watson. Nothing short of a cataclysm would keep Jack 
from a first night. But something is out of whack with 
him. I've overhauled him several times lately frowning 
and thoughtful. 

ZoLATEL. Eeally? Jack, thoughtful and frowning, is 
not our Jack. 

Watson. No. and it isn 't like him to forsake his friends 
and haunts. He hasn't been at any of his clubs, as far as 
I know — 

Enter Blanid, d. r. c. Ushers in Mr. Sherwin. 

Blanid. Misther Sherwin, Mademoiselle. 

Zolatel. (Bising and greeting Sherwin with cordial 
familiarity.) How do you do? 

Shervpin. (As they shake hands.) How do you do, 
Mademoiselle? 

Watson. Morning, Flossy. 

Sherwin. (With assumed dignity.) Good morning, Mr. 
Watson. 

(Zolatel moves so there is space at tahle and motions 
Blanid to place a chair.) 

Zolatel. Sit here {motions to chair), and Blanid will 
bring us hot coffee. 

Sherwin. (Bowing with mock formality, then rests hands 
on back of chair for a moment.) You are indeed kind to a 
comparative stranger. (Seats himself.) 

Watson. (Addressing Sherwin.) How is it. Flossy, 
been out calling the lark? 

Sherwin. (With exaggerated gravity.) I'm not, at 
present, pursuing the lark in any form, but am obeying 
my wife's command, as I ever do, — that division may not 
divide our house. 

Watson. Then you come as a new acquaintance? 

Sherwin. Yes, quite new. 

(Enter Blanid d. c. with coffee. Pours cofee in 
Sherwin 's cup and hands him cream and sugar. 
Fills Watson's cup and passes cream and sugar 
to him. Puts cream and sugar in Zolatel 's 
cup and pours coffee on it. As Blanid steps 
hack Zolatel rises, with coffee cup held daintily 
by handle in right hand.) 

Zolatel. (Gaily holding cup toward her guests.) Per- 
mit me to pledge you in cafe au lait. (Sherwin and Wat- 



THE TESTING 41 

SON rise, each with cup in hand. They clinic cups as if 
they ivere glasses.) Here's to good health and a joyous 
majority of joys. 

Sherwin. (Bowing.) And may your enemies betake 
themselves to the other side of the world. 

Watson. And you forget they're there. 

ZoLATEL. (As they seat themselves.) Ah, Dick! that 
is good, for when we forget we have enemies, we have none. 

(They sip their coffee as they chat.) 

Sherwin. (Assuming an air of grave dignity.) Mrs. 
Sherwin thinks I should see more of the world than I do, 
and sent me to convey to you her congratulations on the 
success of your new play. She charged me to say that you 
surpassed yourself last night and that your work is the 
best of its kind she has seen. (Placing hand on his heart 
and botving.) And permit me to add that there can be no 
dissent from that opinion. 

ZoLATEL. (With mocTc formality.) I pray you, sir, 
assure Mrs. Sherwin of my appreciation and accept my 
thanks. 

Sherwin. (Bowing.) I will now state the second com- 
mission with which I am charged, which is to ascertain 
from you, by any means my ingenuity can suggest, the 
identity of the masked dancer who appeared at my wife's 
recent fete. 

ZoLATEL. (As if quite serious.) Be so good as to say 
to Mrs. Sherwin, for me, that it was by pledging the masked 
dancer that his identity should not be known, that I in- 
duced him to appear at her fete; otherwise I would gladly 
grant her request. 

Watson. (ShaJcing his head.) Flossy, old boy, that 
episode's thin ice. 

Sherwin. (With gravity and a shade of anxiety.) I 
hope (pauses a moment), for Kate's sake, that it'll not 
give way. (Again pauses.) Does Dayton know? 

Watson. I think not. Anyway, he's too dull to be 
dangerous? 

Sherwin, Hardly, and no one can get on both sides of 
a question quicker than Hastings. 

Watson. You know him and can speak with authority. 

Sherwin. (Holding monocle between tMimh and finger.) 
No one really knows Hastings Dayton, but I do know 
something of him. Since we were boys we've trotted on the 
same track. 

Watson. But not in the same class. 

Sherwin. No. However (with an upioard and an out- 
ward motion of his hands, as if casting aside all anxiety), 
borrow not bother. (Frowning and speaMng with assumed 
seriousness.) Hold! that sounds well, and, as it doesn't 



42 THE TESTING 

mean much it's just the thing for the heading of a division 
of my forthcoming book. 

ZoLATEL. ( With surprise and smiling interest. ) Your 
forthcoming bookf 

Sherwin. Yes, it has been forthcoming for years. 

Watson. And what are you calling it noiv, Flossy? 

Sherwin. {As if much surprised.) Can it be, I have 
not spoken to you of the name? I shall call it: Mistakes of 
Those Who are Aging. 

ZoLATEL. How odd! Mistakes of those who are aged. 

Sherwin. No, Mademoiselle. The aged are no longer 
extant. My book, when it forthcomes, will be called: Mis- 
takes of Those who are Aging. 

ZOLATEL. Ah, I see. 

Watson. And one of the mistakes you will point out will 
be, for instance? 

Sherwin. To fail to keep at least one hand in the glove 
of youth. 

Watson. Tell how it's done, Flossy, and when your 
book is given to a waiting public, it will be the best seller, 
not of the season, but of the century. 

Sherwin. (Bising and with an upward side motion of 
his hands and head.) I'll do it. (Picl's up sMrts of coat, 
in each hand and takes a feiv side steps with Icnee bends 
and flings and sings.) "Then we'll all love each other, 
and call each man a brother, and there '11 be no trouble any 
more, any more. Then there will be no trouble any more. ' ' 
{Ealting before Zolatel.) But you're still booted and 
spurred, Mademoiselle, and we are detaining you. Glorious 
morning for a trot. Just the thing to set you up after 
your work last night. {Patting Watson on the shoulder.) 
Good boy to think of it. 

Watson. {Rising.) Yes, I'm a good boy, but it was 
Isabel's idea, and she sent me with her saddle horse to 
execute it. 

Zolatel. {Who has risen.) Think of her doing that. 
She's a true comrade, one woman in a thousand. 

Sherwin. {Whimsically.) She surely is. There are 
ten hundred women in a thousand, and Miss Cavalack is 
one of them. {Seriously, turning to Watson.) Dick, boy, 
fate has given you the greatest good, a woman who under- 
stands; for me she reserved the next best blessing, one who 
does not. 

Enter Blanid d. r. c. with letter on tray. 

Blanid. Plase, may I be givin' ye this, Mademoiselle? 
It jest come by special messenger, an' he's waitin' very 
particular f'r an answer. 

Zolatel. {Stands ivith one hand resting lightly on 
table. To Blanid.) In a moment. {To Sherwin, 



THE TESTING 43 

aravehi.) Please assure Mrs. Sherwin that I thank her, 
most sincerely, for her appreciation. {Turning to Wat- 
son ) Do not fail, Dick, to deliver my message to Isabel 
Cavalack. {Gives hand first to Sherwin, then to Watson.) 
Adieu, adieu. 

Exit Sherwin and Watson d. r. c. 
ZolKtel {As she seats herself in carved wood chair by 
table.) 'Phone down, Blan, that the answer will be ready 
in a few minutes. 

Exit Blanid d. r. c. 
(ZOLATEL takes up letter, cuts the envelope quickly 
ivith paper cutter. Looks at signature and 
presses it to her lips. Enter Blanid d. r. c. 
and proceeeds to arrange table at which Zolatel 
is sitting.) 
Zolatel. {Reading eagerly. As she finishes, turns to 
Blanid.) What free time have I this week, Blan? 

Blanid. {Pauses as she sets pen rack in its place.) 
None at all, me baby. It's glad I am ye was gettm' a bit 
av recreation this mornin', since ye '11 have no space av 
time to call ye 're own for days to come. ^ , .^ , , 

ZoLVTEL. {Besting chin in upturned palm of left haiia, 
ivith right on table.) Let us see. To-morrow is rehearsal. 
{Puts down one finger of right hand.) Then the matinee 
{Counts this with another finger.) And Thursday, what 
have we for Thursday, Blan? 

Blanid. T'em costumes, an' a lot av time they 11 be 

ZolXtel. Yes, and Friday is rehearsal again, and Sat- 
urday the matinee You are right, Blan, I shall not have 
a free moment until Sunday. What a bondage my lite is. 
Blanid. {Shaking her head.) Poor baby. 

(Zolatel adjusts her chair, opens table drawer and 
takes out note paper. Takes a pen and writes 
rapidly. Blanid goes about arranging differ- 
ent things. 'Phone bell rings. Exit Blanid 
d. r. c. Zolatel looks over letter and folds it.) 

Blanid. {Heard speaking at 'phone.) I'll be seein' 
an' let ye know. 

Enter Blanid d. r. c. 

Blanid. Miss Latrave says she has an apintment. 

Zol'vtel. {As she puts letter in envelope, with a sigh 

and shake of her head.) I had forgotten. {Seals envelope, 

picks up pen and holds it suspended m her hand.) it only 

the debt was paid, Blan, I could be through, once for all, 

' with such people as Miss Latrave. 



44 THE TESTING 

Blanid. We're comin' on, Talla, dear; we're comin' 
on. Kape up yer courage. 

ZoLATEL. Yes, yes. {Draws a deep breath and shaTces 
her head with a little upward motion.) But the way is so 
long, Blan, and so dangerous. Poor father, alone, work- 
ing with his patents which cost so much and come to noth- 
ing. But, — oh, well (ivith a little motion of her hands as 
if she would put it all aside for the nonce), tell them to 
show her up. 

Exit Blanid d. r. c. 
(ZoLATEL dips her pen and addresses letter.) 

Blanid. (Heard at 'phone.) Plase be showin' Miss 
Latrave up. 

[Enter Blanid, with small' silver tray in her hand.) 

Zolatel. (As Blanid places tray on table.) Eemain 
near the reception-room door, Blan, and if I raise my hand 
in this way (raises hand to cheek), come in and say it is 
time for me to prepare for rehearsal. 

Blanid. I'll mind yer motion, an' be makin' it as soon 
as ye dacently can, Talla, dear, fer th' Latrave woman is 
one av them as gives ye nothin' save wakness. 

Exit Blanid d. r. c. 

(She carefully places chair near door r. c. in such 
a ivay that a person sitting in it can see Zolatel 
and can be seen by audience.) 

Zolatel. (Who has observed the placing of the chair.) 
That's right. I'll seat her so she will not see you. 

(Enter Blanid d. r. c. and comes forward to table.) 

Zolatel. (Placing letter on small silver tray.) Send it 
right down, Blan, and 'phone the messenger to deliver it 
promptly. 

(Exit Blanid ivith letter on tray. Zolatel steps 
to cheval glass and surveys herself. Raises her 
hand as if to remove her hat. Then seems to 
change her mind, drops hands and returns to 
table, seats herself in carved wood chair and 
takes up letter she has just answered. As she 
rereads it a happy, satisfied smile lights her 
face. During this action Blanid is heard at 
'phone.) 

Blanid. (At 'phone.) Plaise be havin' th' messenger 
waitin ' fer an answer from Mademoiselle, come to th ' 
'phone. (Pauses.) Yes, I'm sendin' down th' letter yer 
waitin ' fer. See ye get it at once, an ' when ye do, deliver 



THE TESTING 45 

it wid speed, an' I'm thinkin' ye '11 have a bit av silver to 
cheer ye. 

{Knocking is heard at reception-room door. Blanid 
is heard speaking to bellboy.) 

Blanid. Th' messenger is waitin'. Give it to him an' 
send him a goin', 'tis important. 

{Enter Blanid d. r. c. Pauses a moment with sil- 
ver tray in her hand and regards Zolatel, as 
she sits smiling with open letter before her, 
with a dubious look. Shakes her head as if 
fearing trouble, then advances to table at which 
Zolatel is sitting and places tray on it. As 
she does so, a knock is heard at reception-room 
door.) 

Blanid. That's Miss Latrave, an' it's wishin' I am 
she was goin' not comin'. 

Exit Blanid d. r. c. 

(Zolatel hastily folds letter, opens table drawer 
and drops it in.) 

Enter Blanid 

Blanid. Miss Latrave. 

(Zolatel steps forward to meet her.) 

Miss Latrave. How do you do, Mademoiselle? 

Zolatel. {In a quiet, non-committal manner, as they 
shake hands.) How do you do, Miss Latrave? Pray, be 
seated. {Indicates chair on the opposite side of the table 
from where she is standing.) 

{When Miss Latrave is seated, Zolatel seats her- 
self in carved wood chair by table.) 

Miss Latrave. {Glancing at Zolatel 's habit and hat.) 
I fear I am unduly prompt. 

Zolatel. No, though it so chances I have not had a 
moment since I came in, in which to lay aside my habit. 

Miss Latrave. {With a little smile.) It's most becom- 
ing. How charming the park was this morning. We were 
out early and as the mist rose I said to Jules that I had 
never seen anything more beautiful. 

Zolatel. {Slightly frowns and for a moment looks 
annoyed, but speaks with quiet indifference.) It was, in- 
deed, charming in the park this morning and as I enjoyed 
it longer than I should, I now find myself pressed for time. 

Miss Latrave. Then I must not detain you and will at 
once deliver Mrs. Page's message. She is giving a dinner 
to be followed by an entertainment Thursday week, and I 



46 THE TESTING 

am to ask if, after Thursday evening performance, you will 
give ' ' The Creole Courtship. ' ' Also, if it wovild be pos- 
sible for you to have the masked dancer come with you? 
She charged me to say that she would consider your coming 
a great favor, and that you could name your own price. 

ZoLATEL. I can say at once that the masked dancer will 
not consider any engagement. (Pauses for a moment as if 
considering.) As to myself, say to Mrs. Page that it will 
be necessary for her to arrange with either Blanid or me. 
(Blanid, with an approving side nod of her head, chucJcles, 
then with a little shahe of the head leans forward and 
smiles broadly. Zolatel, after a moment's pause, con- 
tinues.) But I understood, from your note, that you wished 
to see me in regard to a personal matter? 

Miss Latrave. Yes (pauses and hesitates), but it is so 
intimate, that it is not easy to speak of it. 

Zolatel. (Quietly and ivith a little smile.) Pray state 
it. 

Miss Latrave. (Leans toward Zolatel and seems to 
force herself to speaT<:.) It is in regard to Jules, Mr. 
Vose-Taylor. 

(Blanid leans fonvard with eager attention.) 

Zolatel. (Very quietly and with a little up-look which 
suggests a smile.) Well? 

( Blanid 's face and attitude indicate such attention 
as one gives when watching a race. She smiles 
a little, as if her choice were making speed.) 

Miss Latrave. (InterlocTcing the fingers of her gloved 
hands and leaning forward with them on the table between 
her and Zolatel.) Of course you know how peculiarly he 
is situated? 

Zolatel. (With an uplift of her brows.) In what way? 

Miss Latrave. As to financial matters. 

Zolatel. (Pursing her lips with a half smile and shak- 
ing her head.) No, the finances of my friends do not inter- 
est me. 

Miss Latrave. (Speaking in a tone of cynical disbe- 
lief.) Indeed, it is often said your ability as a financier 
is one of your distinctions. 

Zolatel. Ah, my own finances, that is different, but as 
I seek none but legitimate gains, the finances of others do 
not concern me. But proceed. You have something to say, 
I believe, as to (with an uplift of her brows and a shade 
of contempt in her tone) Mr. Vose-Taylor 's finances. 

Miss Latrave. (Ignoring the implied criticism.) Can 
it be that you have not heard of the peculiar will of his late 
uncle, who died possessed of something over $30,000,000? 



THE TESTING 47 

ZoLATEL. No (ivith a slight shake of the head), I have 
not heard of it. 

Miss Latrave. But it concerns you. 

ZoLATEL. {In a tone expressing both astonishment and 
doubt.) Me! In what way? 

Miss Latrave. His uncle's will gives Jules (as if cor- 
recting herself), Mr. Vose-Taylor, $17,000,000, providing 
he does not marry, become engaged or in any way entangle 
himself with any woman for seven years from the date of 
the opening of the will. 

ZoLATEL. {With an inscrutable smile and a slight rais- 
ing oj her head.) And why did you think that concerned 
me? 

Miss Latrave. {With the emphasis which indicates 
irritation.) You certainly know that, just now, Ju — 
(halts a moment) Mr. Vose-Taylor fancies himself in love 
with you, as so many men have and still do. As often 
happens, he is enthralled with one woman while really lov- 
ing another, and his fascination is likely to lead him to 
ruinous lengths. 

ZoLATEL. ( With a little uplift of her head and speaking 
sweetly.) In what way? 

Miss Latrave. On account of the wording of the will. 
If he enters into any relation with any woman, in any way, 
the provisional bequest of $17,000,000 goes to charity. 

ZoLATEL. And you think there is danger that Mr. Vose- 
Taylor will become entangled with me? 

Miss Latrave. (With a slight shake of her head and 
with emphasis.) I certainly do. 

ZoLATEL. You feel sure that if he does not get this 
$17,000,000, he will be ruined? 

Miss Latrave. As he has nothing, what else would you 
call it? 

ZoLATEL. (Speaking sweetly.) And the woman he 
loves. What of her? 

Miss Latrave. Mademoiselle, when Jules, — I'm in the 
habit of calling him so as he asked that I should (Zolatel 
winces a little and Blanid shakes her head and looks as if 
she would like to shake Miss Latrave) and I met, it was 
love at first sight. 

Zolatel. (Raising her head and speaking in a restrained, 
even tone.) What reason have you for thinking so? 

Miss Latrave. Every reason. His look, what he said 
then, and has said since. He has called daily to see me, 
and in society has devoted himself to me as men do to the 
women they marry. Truly, of late, he has spoken much of 
you, but the attraction you have for him is simply a cloud 
which will soon pass. (Leaning toward Zolatel and 
speaking rapidly and eagerly.) His attentions to you are 
but an incident. You would not miss him from the train 



48 THE TESTING 

of your admirers; by holding him, you gain nothing, and 
it will spoil his life. 

ZoLATEL. {Bending toward Miss Lateave and looTcing 
at her questioningly.) And if the sentiment Mr. Vose- 
Taylor entertains for me should chance to be not a mere 
infatuation but love, what then? 

Miss Latrave. I would still ask you to decline to see 
him, that he may be saved from himself. 

Zolatel. (Narrowing her eyes and speaking in an even 
voice.) Do you then count love so light a thing that it 
may be shuttled back and forth? 

Miss Latrave. No, what I ask is that for a time you 
refuse to see Jules. If you do this, I believe he will return 
to his saner self and fulfil the provisions of his uncle's 
will. 

Zolatel. (SpeaMng slowly.) Then, in your opinion, 
Mr. Vose-Taylor is suffering from temporary insanity? 

Miss Latrave. (With a touch Y asperity.) You wil- 
fully misinterpret me, but I will ask you, is it not madness 
for Mr. Vose-Taylor to cast aside his place in the world 
and give up all that constitutes a man's happiness? When 
all is said, it is what a man has, what he can do, command 
and be proud of, which makes his life worth while. 

(Blanid leans forward as if to catch every tone of 
Zolatel 's reply.) 

Zolatel. And when Mr. Vose-Taylor is barred my 
salon, what of your claims to his love? 

Miss Latrave. I will be to Jules all that I can, while 
keeping within the provisions of the will, and aid him in 
fulfilling them, as I am doing m coming to you, prompted 
by such love as you cannot understand. 

(Zolatel narrows her eyes and regards Miss Latrave 
for a moment in silence. Blanid tilts her head 
forward so that she can see Zolatel 's face.) 

Zolatel. (Speaking slowly, scornfully and with delib- 
erate emphasis.) Such love I do not understand! (Pauses 
a moment.) No, I do not understand the love which con- 
siders first and last, spoil; the love which has no respect 
for the spirit, but keeps to the letter, for pelf. (Drawing 
herself very erect and speaking with slow decision.) T am 
glad, indeed, that I do not know that kind of love. You 
would, forsooth, wait and watch Vose-Taylor until he could 
legally claim $17,000,000; keep him in hand, by means foul 
or fair, imtil that sum is his. (liaises her head with a look 
of proud assertion and speaks with vehement passion.) And 
you call this love? (With forceful assertion.) We will 
now have plain speaking. I love Jules Vose-Taylor, and 
would marry him to-day with never a thought of loss or 



THE TESTING 49 

gain, as far as I am personally concerned. (SpeaJcing 
softly, tenderly and tvith deep feeling.) That I might see 
him, hear his voice and be near him, I wonld, if need be, 
work harnessed with a beast of burden, as women in some 
lauds do. And yet, if I believed it was for his good, I 
would endure the keen anguish of {in a voice tremulous 
tvith emotion) never — seeing — him — again. But w^hat you 
ask, Miss Latrave, is that I take from the man I love the 
golden sun of life, that it may be replaced by punk, which 
lights nothing but itself and cannot warm, and I say to 
you, once for all, NO! I will not do it. 

Miss Latrave. (In a commonplace manner.) So you 
propose to beggar Vose-Taylor and ruin yourself? 

ZoLATEL. (Smiling and with a little motion of her head, 
speaks softly and in a manner fully assured..) ISTo one can 
be beggared who has youth, ability, energy and honor, and 
no one can be ruined who is ever striving for a higher, 
and yet higher ideal. (Siveetly.) You know the angel in 
Faust says: "We can save him, for he labors every hour." 

Miss Latrave. (With an air of tolerant superiority as 
she rises.) Keally, I ayn sorry. Mademoiselle, that we do 
not understand each other. I ielieve you will change your 
mind. Meanwhile, you have my best wishes for the success 
of your new play, and all your plays, both on and off the 
stage. 

ZoLATEL. (Who has risen, turning toward reception- 
room.) Blanid. 

Enter Blanid d. r. c. 

ZoLATEL. (Boivs slighthj and speaks with quiet self- 
possession.) Good morning, Miss Latrave. 

Miss Latrave. (As she steps fonvard to precede 
Blanid.) Good morning, Mademoiselle. 

(Exit Miss Latrave attended hy Blanid. Zolatel 
stands tvith left hand resting on table and the 
right against the side of her face. After a 
moment raises her head as tvith a sense of re- 
lief and slightly smiles. Enter Blanid d. r. c.) 

Blanid. (Comes to Zolatel 's side and pats her on the 
shoulder, regarding her with fond pride.) It is proud I am 
av ye, Talla dear, yer able fer aany av 'em. 

Zolatel. (Begarding Blanid fondly and taking a deep 
breath.) Dear, partial, old comrade, another danger sig- 
nal's past. 

Blanid. An' what wan was that, Talla? 

Zolatel I feared she might have found out something 
about father. That is ever my first thought. 

Blanid. (Begarding her with pitying fondness.) Poor 
baby! (Pauses.) Av course Miss Latrave bein' wan av 
4 



50 THE TESTING 

them that'll never do more than go on begittin' her kind, 
aint worth considerin ' — shtill I thought what she was sayin ', 
about Misther Vose-Taylor, might trouble ye. 

ZoLATEL. (SmUing and with a note of light denial in 
her voice.) No! why should it? 

Blanid. (Placing her arms akimio.) Sure it's not 
good to be belavin' botherin' things, f r it causes disturb- 
ance inside the head, but I thought, mayhaps, ye might be 
belavin ' what she be sayin ' about Misther Vose-Taylor. 

ZoLATEL. I do not believe it, Blan ; I simply cannot, 
and that 's an end of it. 

Blanid. Ye 're like yer blessed mither; but about th' 
will and th' $17,000,000, ye think that's true? 

ZoLATEL. No doubt, and {gravely and with a shade of 
anxiety), I wish it was not. 

Blanid. If it is, an' Misther Vose-Taylor was choosin' 
to wait seven years before settlin ' down, he 'd be makin ' 
more 'an two million and a half a year, 

ZoLATEL. (Placing right hand on Blanid 's shoulder 
and smiling.) How venal you are, but we must not, in 
our anxiety, Blan, to pay the debt, forget that there are 
things, the noblest, best and finest in life, that money can't 
buy. (Clasps her hands and interlocl's fingers.) But oh, 
how bitter the need of it is. (Puts her two hands in play- 
ful caress against Blanid 's cheel's), and as we must earn 
what we need, Blan (removes hands from Blanid 's face), 
now that the decks are cleared for action, come (takes 
Blanid 's hand, swings it lightly), we must (they move 
toivard D. l. u.) make ready for rehearsal. 
(Quiclc Curtain.) 

SCENE DEOP 



SCENE II. 



Scene — Zolatel's salon, same as Scene I. Curtains drawn 
and lights so shaded that they shed a roseate glow 
throughout the room. On large table, near center of 
room are pen rack, ink pad, paper, several magazines, a 
paper cutter and a large crystal bowl filled with white 
carnations and mignonette. The same flowers are ar- 
ranged in vases and bowls in different parts of the room. 

Time — About eight o'clock in the evening. 

(Discovered, Zolatel standing by table adjusting 
the carnations and mignonette in bowl. When 
she has finished she stands for a moment look- 
ing about the room as if to see that all is ar- 



THE TESTING ' 51 

ranged to her satisfaction. She is dressed in a 
white diaphanous gown that falls in long sweep- 
ing lines and at her throat and waist is a knot 
of gold-yelloiv ribbon. Having finished her sur- 
vey of the room, Zolatel sinks into chair by 
table and resting her head on her hand sits 
meditating. Blanid, dressed as before, to ap- 
pear straight bodied and prim, is arranging 
various things about the room.) 

Blanid. (Begarding Zolatel with solicitude.) An' 
arre yer thoughts troublin' ye, me baby? 

Zolatel. (Raising her head.) No, Blan, no. I was 
just thinking how glad I am love has come to me. 

Blanid. An' sure, Talla, it's love as has been comin' 
to ye ivvery night an' day since ye was born, an' racent 
more 'an ivver. Th' house this minute is full av blos- 
soms, from them as is lovin' ye, — one way or another. A 
big bunch av white orch-kids, th' kind that's not common, 
come jest a bit ago, an' if ye '11 consent to observe 'em, 
I '11 bring 'em in. 

Zolatel. No, Blan, you know I never have flowers that 
men send me in this room, and to-night it would be a 
profanation, 

Blanid. Not knowin' who sends 'em, me darlin', th' 
flowers be naught save swatness, an' th' orch-kids an' them 
big lily-flowers arre beavities. 

Zolatel. It is what the flowers mean, Blan, and to-night 
(with introspective expression and speaking softly), when 
the man I love will soon be here, I do not want to think of 
them. 

Blanid. (Standing ivith a piece of china from the table 
she is arranging in her hand, regards Zolatel.) Ye was 
never like this before, Talla, dear, an' it's wishin' I am, 
ye wasn 't like it now. 

Zolatel. (Speaking as if the question had just occurred 
to her.) Did you never love any one, Blan? 

Blanid. (Setting the piece of china she has in her 
hand on the tea table, rests her right hand on hip and 
speaks with an emphatic motion of her head.) An' sure, 
Talla, ye I 've been lovin ' all yer life, shouldn 't be askin ' 
me that. 

Zolatel. (Leaning toward Blanid and speaking ten- 
derly.) I know, dear Blan, I know, but I mean a sweet- 
heart. Have you never had a lover? 

Blanid. (Speaking slowly.) I was took from the 
Barge Ofiice by yer blessed mither, when I was a alone 
slip av a girl, me father an' mither bein' dead, an' me 
cousin, who brought me, sick with th ' f aver that took him. 
Yer mither was that shweet an' mindful, I was soon lovin' 



52 THE TESTING 

her like me own, an' when ye come, sudden, th' way ye've 
always been doin ' things, an ' give yer first cry in me 
arms, my heart was as full av love fer ye as an over runnin' 
pot, an ' so it has remained, an ' a thing beiu ' full, no more 
can be put into it. 

ZoLATEL. {Regarding Blanid with a looTc of loving 
affection.) I see how it is, Blan dear, the great love is 
the same whether it is between man and woman, parent 
and child, or between comrades as we are. Do you know, 
Blan, I think suchjove holds all who belong to each other 
together, and that death does not part them. (Baises 
miniature suspended by a slender chain about her nech to 
her lips, then regards it with a dreamy loolc.) I believe 
mother smiles more in the miniature, Blan, than in the 
portrait {glances at portrait on mantel), because it is near 
my heart. 

Blanid. {Turning from tea table u-hich she is arrang- 
ing.) An' it's hopin ' I am she'd smile if she could be 
knowin'. {Pauses a little.) Though Im doubtin' about 
it. 

ZoLATEL. {Raising her head and speaJdng earnestly.) 
There's no doubt about it, Blan. My mother would smile, 
she does smile, for I 'm sure she knows that the greatest 
good in the world has come to glorify my life. {Glances 
at French clock on mantel.) But Blan, it is after eight 
o'clock, and he was to be here at eight. 

Blanid. {Looking at clock with contempt.) As ye 
know, Talla, that triflin' French clock gives no indication 
av th' time. It goes slow an' then agin' shwift, regard- 
less av th' sun or th' time o' night. 

( 'Phone bell rings in reception room. Exit Blanid 
D. R. c. ZoLATEL tums her head and listens.) 

Blanid. {After a moment's silence, heard from recep- 
tion room.) All right. Plase be sliowin' him up imme- 
giately. 

Enter Blanid d. r. c. 

Blanid. {Addressing Zolatel.) I've told 'em to bring 
Misther Vose-Taylor up. 

Zolatel. When you have shown Mr. Vose-Taylor in, 
Blan, leave us. 

Blanid. {Evidently much astonished.) In here, Talla, 
an' then me go out? 

Zolatel. {Speaking gravely and with decision.) Tes, 
Blan. {Pauses for a moment.) Mr. Vose-Taylor is not 
as other men I know. 

(Blanid goes to sofa and arranges pillows.) 

Zolatel. {Moving aboxd room and speaking as if think- 
ing aloud.) How wonderfvil to love. 



THE TESTING 53 

(ZOLATEL goes to mantel and stands leaning against 
it, looking at her mother's portrait. Blanid 
regards her ivith an anxious look and shakes her 
head ominously.) 

ZoLATEL. (Beflectively.) I have never loved before, 
yet it is like something recalled. (Pauses.) It seems as 
if I had known Jules always. 

(Knock at reception-room door. Exit Blanid d. r. c.) 
Blanid. (Heard speaking in reception-room.) Plase 
be shtepin' this way. 

Enter Blanid and Vose-Taylor, d. r. c. 

Blanid. Misther Vose-Taylor, Mademoiselle. 

(Exit Blanid d. l. u., shaking her head and looking 
grave and troubled. Zolatel comes quickly for- 
ivard. As she meets Vose-Taylor he takes her 
extended hands and holds them and they look 
for a moment in each other's eyes.) 

ZoLATEL. I'm so glad to see you. 

Vose-Taylor. (Still holding Zolatel's hands.) And 
how glad I am to be here you cannot know. (Vose-Taylor 
leads ZoLATEL to sofa and as they sit he glances about the 
room.) How charming this room is to-night. (Bending 
his head and inhaling the fragrance of the flowers in a 
crystal bowl on table near sofa, and again glancing about 
room.) Just carnations and mignonette. You like them 
best? 

ZoLATEL. Yes, they are so faithful and pure, and are 
almost never sent me. 

Vose-Taylok. But you like the flowers which are sent 
you? 

Zolatel. (Shaking her head.) I never have one of 
them near me, never one in this mom. (With an up look 
and a coy pursing of her lips.) And you are the first per- 
son who has ever been in this room, save when Blanid and 
others were present. 

Vose-Taylor. Of all your world I alone am favored? 

Zolatel. (With a tender, arch little smile.) Yes, of 
all my world. 

Vose-Taylor. (Drawing her quicldy and passionately 
to him.) My own of all the w^orld. (Kisses her cheeks 
and lips.) 

Zolatel. (Gently withdrawing herself from his embrace, 
with a smile and a half dreamy look.) Love is first; it is 
love, then life. (With a little sigh of satisfaction.) And 
we love. 

Vose-Taylor. Yes, from the first moment I saw you I 
had no choice but to love you. When you came in at 



54 THE TESTING 

Karlton's that day, I seemed to pick up the trail of a lost 
memory (speaking passionately), and when you spoke I 
could scarcely restrain myself, for I knew it was you T 
had been looking for all my life. Often I have seen you ivf 
my night dreams and always in my waking visions. 

ZoLATEL. {Clasping her hands, she leans toward Vose- 
Taylor and speaks with repressed emotion.) And when 
you reinforced what I said that day, a quick realization 
came, which seemed to illuminate a past of which you were 
a part. (Slowly and thoughtfully.) A past when dreams 
were true. 

VOSE- Taylor. And you think, you believe 1 

ZoLATEL. (Speaking in a tone of dreamy reflection.) 
That we have lived before this life, — as we shall live after 
it. 

Vose-Taylor. And that you and I have lived together? 

Zolatel. Yes (pauses and speaks with a touch of sad- 
ness), and then apart. 

Vose-Taylor. (Passionately.) But never apart again. 
(With determination.) My wife to be. Mine, come ivhat 
may. (Kisses with passion her cheek and lips, while hold- 
ing her in close embrace.) 

Zolatel. ( Withdrawing herself from him and with a 
half arch look as if consenting with the question.) After 
seven years? 

Vose-Taylor. No, within the hour, if it could be. 

Zolatel. (Gravely and regarding him with an earnest, 
questioning look.) But the $17,000,000 which is to be 
yours? 

Vose-Taylor. (Looking at Zolatel with smiling earnest- 
ness.) I have relinquished all thought of it. The pur- 
chasing power of money is its only value, and, under the 
provisions of my uncle's will, this money has no real value 
for me. 

Zolatel. Do you then count me (places half -open left 
hand on her chest) worth more than $17,000,000? 

Vose-Taylor. (Drawing her to him.) More to me than 
all the wealth of all the world. ( With right arm still about 
Zolatel 's shoidders, sits erect and questions with eager 
interest.) But who told you of the provisions of my uncle's 
will? 

Zolatel. Helen Latrave. When she called the next 
morning after the first presentation of ' ' The Prophet of 
the Desert, ' ' she told me of that and other things. 

Vose-Taylor. (Thoughtfully.) That was the morning 
she joined me in the park, where I went to be alone to 
think of you, as I saw you the night before. 

Zolatel. Ah-h! I knew it was not as she would have 
me believe, that she was with you at your invitation, and 
that you cared for her. 



THE TESTING 55 

Vose-Taylor. (Leaning toxvard her and speaking 
eagerly.) Cared for her? You did not believe that; you 
did not doubt my love? 

ZoLATEL. How L'ould I? Perfect love cannot know 
jealousy 's mad selfishness. Could I give less than I re- 
ceive? You have never questioned me. 

Vose-Taylor. {Looking fondly into her face.) I ask 
nothing but your love. 

ZoLATEL. {With a shake of her head and an arch look.) 
I cannot give you that, since my love is no longer mine to 
give, but are you not curious as to loho I am? You know 
nothing save what all see. 

Vose-Taylor. ( With a look and in a tone of passionate 
admiration.) I am satisfied with what I see. 

ZoLATEL. {Touching his face with a light caressing 
motion.) How dear you are! {After a moment's pause.) 
But / am curious to know how you like my real name? 

Vose-Taylor. Is ZolJitel your first or last name? 

ZoLATEL. Neither; it is just my stage name. 

Vose-Taylor. {With a look of questioning surprise.) 
How did you chance to select one so peculiar? 

Zolatel. {Tilting her head xoith a little smile.) I 
didn't select it. It selected me. 

Vose-Taylor. Selected you? 

Zolatel. Yes. When I am creating a character or 
thinking out anything, I sit alone and still, until the part 
of me which is above thought shows me things. {Waves 
right hand slowly with three brief little motions, as she 
points above her forehead, narrows her eyes and looks up 
into space.) When I was trying to decide how to do what 
I have done, as I sat stirless, I saw Zolatel in golden letters 
before me, and I knew it was the sign by which I was to 
conquer. 

Vose-Taylor. (Leaning toward her with the keen inter- 
est of one seeking to understand.) Did the color have 
meaning? 

Zolatel. Yes, for it is strong and swift and is the 
color which reveals white light. (Pauses.) And it is the 
color of gold. But I want to know how you like my name, 
which means, not my work, but me. 

Vose-Taylor. No common name would suit you. 

Zolatel. Mine is not common. It was my mother's. 
(Lifting the miniature attached to the chain about her 
neck and holding it toward him.) Was she not lovely? 

VosE- i'AYLOR. (Looking at miniature intently.) In- 
deed, she was. (Regards Zolatel ivith passionate gaze.) 
But her daughter is more charming. 

Zolatel. No, oh, no! Though I'm glad you think so. 
Now tell me, does my name, Tautalla Gaseonelle, suit me? 

Vose-Taylor. (Starts and looks at Zolatel for a mo- 



56 THE TESTING 

ment, then speaTcs slowly.) It is a beautiful name (hesi- 
tates) ; yes, it suits you. 

ZoLATEL. It's a Creole name. My father and mother 
were Louisiana Creoles. Their families for generations 
have been French and Spanish, Spanish and French end- 
lessly intermixed. 

Vose-Taylor. Was your home in New Orleans'? 

ZoLATEL. Not mine, but theirs. Mother was an orphan 
and her uncle was her guardian. As she had but a small 
patrimony he planned that she marry a rich man. It was 
carnival time and she was the Comis queen. Among the 
mysterious masked men with whom she danced, there was 
one whose voice and presence won her soul before she had 
seen his face. (Pauses, then with an indrawn breath.) 
Theirs was the great love. 

Vose-Taylor. Even as ours. (Raises her hand to his 
lips.) 

ZOLATEL. Yes. (Regards him for a moment fondly and 
then continues.) Two days before she was to be married 
she eloped with my father and they came to New York. 
After i came, my mother was seriously ill and the doctors 
said that favorable conditions alone would prolong her 
life. My father was then paying teller for the Fidelity 
Trust Co'mpany. Think of it, Jules, shut in his wire cage 
ail day, handling millions of money and thinking of the 
beautiful woman he adored, slowly dying for lack of the 
conditions which a small portion of it would give. You 
can understand what that would be? 

Vose-Taylor. (SpeaMng with vehement force.) Yes, 
'twould be hell. 

Zolatel. He saw men rob each other within the law 
for love of power and when he could endure it no longer, 
he deliberately planned to take the money which would save 
my mother's life. (With a pathetic little gesture and a 
sigh.) It was all so sad. For a time my mother did not 
know. When she did she bore the bin-den of father 's hunted 
life with him, as long as she lived. 

A'OSE-Taylor. And then? 

Zolatel. (Raising her head and speaking with slow 
emphasis.) I determined to return the money my father 
had illegally boi'rowed. He has always been hoping that 
the patents on which he is working will enable hi^n to do 
so. 

Vose-Taylor. And this is what you are working for? 

Zolatel. (With indrawn breath and a 'sad little smile.) 
Yes, and not for fame and gain. And now, that you 
know ? 

Vose-Taylor. (Leaning toward her.) I love you more, 
if that is possible. Fire purifies, suffering is the fire of 



THE TESTING 57 

the soul. How much was (hesitates for a vioment) the 
debt? 

ZoLATEL. One huudred thousand dollars. 

"Vose-Taylor. And you are striving to earn so much? 

ZoLATEL. I now have nearly $/0,000. 

Vose-Taylor. And you've done this alone? 

ZoLATEL. No, I've had Blanid, she and I are comrades. 

Vose-Taylor. {Bending toward her and pressing his 
lips to her forehead.) You now have two comrades. Ac- 
cording to the old Quaballah, there 's magic in the number 
three and the three of us will together soon make a finish 
of this debt. 

ZoLATEL. Together, that will make all work a joy. And 
the plans for the apartments, did you bring them? 

Vose-Taylor. Yes, x will get them. 

Exit Vose-Taylor d. r. c. 

(Zolatel rises and goes to the table in center of 
room. Enter Vose-Taylor d. r. c. with roll of 
paper in his hand such as architects use. 
Zolatel seats herself at table. Vose-Taylor 
draws a chair to her side and seating himself 
loosens the band which holds roll and spreads 
out the drawings. Zolatel places hand on edge 
to hold it in place. They both bend over 
drawings. ) 

Vose-Taylor. (Pointing with pencil he talces from pen 
rach on table.) Here you see is the open court for the 
children, with the adjustable skylight, as you suggested. 

Zolatel. (With enthusiasm.) It was the old Spanish 
houses in New Orleans which gave me the idea. (Bending 
forward and looking more closely.) What good times the 
children will have there. When the debt is paid, w^e will 
work, Jules, and build apartments for those who cannot 
pay much, and the children shall have an open court and 
other needful things, and be happy and thrive. ( Thought- 
fully and speaking sloicly and impressively.) What all 
need is a chance to uplift themselves. 

Vose-Taylor. (Eegarding her admiringly.) You make 
everything simple and plain, Tautalla. (Taking folded 
paper from his pocket and spreading it out over the draw- 
ings before them.) If I could get this thing to work it 
wouldn 't go begging for it is needed in steel construction, 
and would help out, but there's one part I can't get just 
right. When I come to it my mind balks. 

Zolatel. (Toucliing line with index finger of left hand.) 
Is this the part that doesn't come right? 

Vose-Taylor. (Looking intently at paper u'here Zola- 
tel 's finger rests, then speaks with vehement enthusiasm 



58 THE TESTING 

and raising hand excitedly.) By Jove! I believe I see 
now how it must go. {Both hend over paper, Vose-Taylor 
much excited.) Yes, I have it now. {Curtain begins to 
descend ivhile Vose-Taylor is speaMng, and he and 
ZoLATEL are still studying drawing.) The defect was right 
here. {Indicates with pencil.) The thing is quite simple. 
{Heard speaTcing as curtain shuts stage from view.) 
Strange, your finger seemed to trace it in a line of light. 

ACT DEOP 



ACT IV 

Scene — Zolatel's salon, same as Act III. White carna- 
tions and mignonette in crystal bowl on large table near 
center of room, also in vases on other tables, on mantel, 
and low book case. L. R. below preplace. The sun shines 
in at lace-curtained window L. c, through which a glimpse 
of green trees is seen. 

Time — About three o'clock in the afternoon. 

(Discovered, Zolatel in handsome afternoon costume 
seated in high-backed carved wood chair at large 
table, bending, pencil in hand, and with droAnn 
broics over a large sheet of paper on which she 
set down figures. She draws a line and seems 
to be adding. Eaises head with a little shake 
and an indrawn breath, as Blanid enters r. c 
tvith a silver tray in her hand on which is a 
letter. 

Blanid. (Presenting letter on tray.) Th' boy be sayin', 
to 'phone th ' answer to th ' office. 

(Zolatel takes letter and opens it ivith paper knife. 
Blanid continues standing by table with tray 
in her hand.) 

Zolatel. (Glances at letter, frowns, looks disturbed and 
turns to Blanid, still holding letter.) It's from Mr. Day- 
ton, Blan. (Zolatel then reads letter aloud. Blanid, 
with head bent forward, tray still in right hand and left on 
hip, listens tvith an expression of intense interest.) "On 
two occasions, when I have requested an interview, plead- 
ing engagements, you have declined to see me, naming no 
time when you would receive me. Nothing less than a 
matter of grave importance now induces me to ask a brief 
audience, and at once. I think you will grant my request 
when I say that the matter which I wish to discuss, is of 
vital importance to you. I await your reply, here at the 
office of your hotel. Very truly yours, Hastings Dayton. ' ' 

(For a moment Zolatel closes her eyes and presses 
her head into her hand. Then raises her head 
and looks at Blanid tvith questioning appeal.) 

Blanid. (Placing tray on table, she steps to Zolatel 's 
side and, as she lightly strokes her hair, looks much dis- 
59 



60 THE TESTING 

turbed.) It's thinkin' I am, he's found out somethin' and 
(pauses a moment), is wantin' to force ye to his will. 

ZoLATEL. (Besting clasped hands on the table, shaking 
her head and spealcing in an anxious, distressed tone.) I 
thinJc he does, Blan. If only the debt was paid, but (pick- 
ing up the sheet of paper over ivhich she had been studying 
and glancing at it), there is nearly $31,000 more than we 
have. (Sadly and with a deep sigh.) My poor, poor 
father! What shall I do? 

Blanid. (With a dubious look and a sloiv, emphatic nod 
of her head.) Ye must be seein' th' Dayton man, Talla, 
and thin, when ye know what he's wantin', do th' best ye 
can. 

ZoLATEL. (Glancing at clock and with an anxious look 
and a sigh.) Yes, I must see him_ and at once. 

Blanid. (With hand on table and leaning toward 
ZoLATEL.) An' Talla, dear, it's sure I am, ye'd best be 
uncommon gentle with him. He's like one av them apples, 
that 's fair lookin ', but punk rotten inside, an ' when ye 
give such a hard grip, ye have filth in yer hand. 

ZoLATEL. (Pushing back her hair and icith an anxious 
look.) I think you're right, Blan, but at best it's walk- 
ing? in the dark on the edge of an abyss. 

Blanid. Well, jest be waitin' loik, baby, till ye see 
what he be up to. (Drops her arm ahout Zolatel's 
shoulders.) An' mind this, me darlin', while I'm livin', 
ye have one to shtand for ye, an' them's belongs to ye, 
that's not fearin' the divil himself. An' don't let yer 
mind be sinkin', fer it's th' mind as vrakens a body, or 
makes 'em strong. 

ZoiATEL. It's you, Blan, dear, who are always strong. 
(Baising clinched hand to face and dran-ing a deep breath.) 
But tell them to send Mr. Dayton up at once. (Glances at 
clock on mantel.) In less than an hour Jules will be here. 

Blanid. (As she turns to leave room.) Ye 're able fer 
liimj Talla, an' don't ye be thinkin' ye 're not. 

Exit Blanid r. c. 

Blanid. (Heard at 'phone in reception room.) Plase 
be sayin ' to Misther Dayton that Mademoiselle is awaitin ' 
him in her sail-yon an' be sendin' him up immegiately. 

(While Blanid is 'phoning, ZolXtel rises and goes 
to cheval glass, raises her hands to her forehead 
and with the tips of her fingers smooths her 
broiv. Looks a moment at her reflection, then 
raises her head with proud determination and 
turns from, glass as Blanid enters b. c.) 

ZoLATEL. Do not leave the room a moment, Blan, while 
Mr. Dayton is here. You can put that lace in order we 



THE TESTING • 61 

were looking at this morning. Perhaps you Iiad better get 
it now. 

Exit Blanid d. l. u. 

(ZoLATEL goes to table near center of room and 
stands meditating. Enter Blanid l. u. with 
work haslet, irhich she places on table near 
ivindow L. c. Knoclcing heard at reception-room 
door. ZoLATEL seats herself at table near center 
of room.) 

Blanid. (Heard speaking in reception room.) Walk 
into the sail-yon, Misther Dayton. 

Enter Dayton, foUowea by Blanid, r. c. 

Blanid. Misther Dayton, Mademoiselle. 

ZoLATEL. (Rises but does not come forward. She smiles 
and speaks sweetly.) Good evening, Mr. Dayton. Pray be 
seated. (Indicates chair on the opposite side of the table 
from herself. When he is seated, she sits in carved tvood 
chair, leans right arm lightly on table and waits for him to 
speak. ) 

Dayton. (After a moment or two of uneasy silence.) 
As it will save time and tire, Mademoiselle Gasconelle, 
(ZoLATEL starts and quickly turns her head from Dayton 
toward audience. Her lips are compressed and her nostrils 
dilated. Dayton regards her with close scrutiny and then 
with an air of satisfied triumph. In a moment Zolatel 
faces him squarely and ivith a half smile silently waits for 
him to proceed. After a moment Dayton continues.) I 
will state, first of all, that you have been unmistakably 
identified as the daughter of La Salle Gasconelle, for whom 
the Fidelity Trust Company have been looking for years. 

Zolatel. (Who has turned her face partly from Day- 
ton toward the audience, after a moment's pause seems to 
be inspired u-ith a sudden resolution, turns to Dayton with 
great dignity and speaks slowly, gently and sweetly.) But 
I understood you wanted to see me on important business? 

Dayton. (Looking at her in astonishment.) And is 
this not a matter of importance? 

Zolatel. (Shaking her head and slightly protruding her 
lips as she speaks.) ■ H'm,- — not specially. 

Dayton. (Speaking with asperity and a shrug of his 
shoulders.) It may become so, when every means at the 
command of a great corporation is put in commission to 
locate your father. 

Zolatel. ( With a pathetic, yet ironical smile, speaking 
slowly and raising her head as she proceeds.) Do you 
think, Mr. Dayton, they will be able to scale the walls of 
heaven ? 

Dayton. (Exclaiming with startled astonishment.) 



62 THE TESTING 

What! Is he dead? (Pauses for a moment.) But, — ^your 
motner ? 

ZOLATEL. {With a slight tremor of lips and voice.) She 
too has gone beyond what we call life. 

Dayton. (Pauses for several moments, frowns, taps foot 
on floor; then regarding Zolatel icith narrotved eyes and 
bringing the bunched fingers of left hand to the table.) 
But disgrace does not die, and the sins of the father are 
visited on the children. 

Zolatel. (Spealing in a quiet, even tone as if the ques- 
tion was an ordinary one.) And did you come, Mr. Day- 
ton, to tell me that you propose to see that this fiat is 
carried out? 

Dayton. (Shaking his head and regarding her ivith a 
direct, determined gaze.) On the contrary, I am here to 
nullify, if possible, that fiat. 

Zolatel. (With questioning incredulity.) To nullify 
it? 

Dayton. (Still leaning slightly toward her and speaTc- 
ing earnestly.) Yes. I will explain: Recently Vose-Taylor 
has added himself to your long list of lovers. Such is his 
infatuation that he is willing to marry you. You know 
the provisions of his late uncle 's will ? 

Zolatel. (Boiving head slightly.) Yes. 

Dayton. Very well. Now, — by marrying Vose-Taylor 
within the next seven years, you pauperize him. As I have 
pointed out, you have no choice but to inherit your father's 
disgrace, if your identity becomes known. You have had 
the benefit of the money he stole (Zolatel winces), and it 
is logical to suppose you still have some of it. 

Zolatel. (After pressing her finger tips to her lips and 
taking a aeep breath, speaking coolly.) Things difficult to 
prove often are not tvorth proving, and (pauses a little), 
the guiltless may dare. (Pauses again and then speaks with 
indifferent scorn.) I am an actress. Advertising, even 
such as I would not choose, has its value. 

Dayton. Quite true, but your hold on public favor is 
peculiar and could easily be dislodged. 

Zolatel. (Smiling scornfully and with a questioning 
lift of her broivs and a forward move of her head.) You 
think so? 

Dayton. (Speaking vehemently.) I do not think, — I 
know. Married, and with the facts of your life known, 
you would no longer be sought, and would be known, not as 
the golden, but as the brazen, Zolatel. 

Zolatel. (Drawing herself erect and looking coldly at 
Dayton.) Ah-h, no, Mr. Dayton. To be identified with 
matters of large and exceptional interest, is to be inter- 
esting. 

Dayton. (Narrowing his eyes and regarding her with 



THE TESTING 63 

a slight suggestion of a sneer.) How would you be so 
identified? 

ZoLATEL. {Speaking slouly as if there could he no doubt 
of the statement.) As the daughter of an unfortunate man, 
whose devotion {shaking her head), not to his mistress 
{looks at Dayton with direct gaze), but to his 'wife, caused 
him to break a law, and, as the wife of Jules Vose-Taylor, 
who for love of me renounced millions, I think I could 
count on interesting the good, bad and nondescript. 

Dayton. {Nodding his head and speaking with indif- 
ferent consent.) Quite so, for a time. But the things you 
name are sensational, and soon an inconstant public would 
tire of them, then you, a defaulter's daughter, a forsaken 
queen of pretense, how could you compensate the man who 
proposes to marry you for his ruined life? {Pausing.) 
Tn fact, what have you now to give him? 

ZoLATEL. {With an outward and downward motion of 
her hands and a little pathetic shake of her head as she 
raises it, looks into space and speaks in a voice tremulous 
with emotion.) I have nothing to give, as the world reck- 
ons values {pauses), but it is not what we give but what 
we are, which is of worth to those we love. 

Dayton. Whose face is turned to the audience, assumes 
a crafty, sinister expression, which passes as he turns to 
ZoLATEL. He leans toward her, places his hand on the table 
between them and speaks with earnest appreciation.) That 
is true, most true, and you can now he more to Vose-Taylor 
than any one in the world; you can be his savior; can 
demonstrate to him and the world, that you are a most 
noble and unselfish woman. 

ZoLATEL. {Narrowing her eyes and speaking with doubt- 
ful suspicion.) I, the disgraced daughter of a defaulter, 
a Broadway favorite, a mere queen of pretense? 

Dayton. {Ignoring the implied irony and speaking with 
sloiv gravity.) Yes, because Vose-Taylor 's regard for you 
just now is very real. When I knew that you were the 
daughter of the absconded defaulter, Gaseonelle, I put it 
to Vose-Taylor that he could not, in reason, make you his 
wife, but 'twas useless, he would not listen to me, nor to 
others. 

ZoLATEL. {Leaning toward Dayton and speaking in a 
breathless, intense way.) When did you explain this to 
Ju— , to Mr. Vose-Taylor? 

Dayton. {Indifferently.) I had a talk with him last 
week. 

Zolatel. {Turning her head toward the audience and 
raising her handkerchief so that it conceals her face from 
Dayton, speaking under her breath ivith a sad little half 
smile.) Then he knew, before I told him. How tender he 
was, not to let me know he knew. {Facing Dayton, draw- 



64 THE TESTING 

ing her imrily clinched hand to the lower part of her face 
and speaking ivith suppressed emotion.) And do others say 
that it will be Mr. Vose-Taylor 's ruin to marry me? 

(ZoLATEL, who sits With doivncttst eyes, does not see 
the ill-concealed look of triumph with which 
Dayton regards her.) 

Dayton. Yes, all who know of this matter think as I 
do. In coming to yon I represent the other executors. 
However, I, — we do not ask you to take our assertion. 
Consider the matter yourself. Vose-Taylor has nothing, 
and by marrying you he not only cuts himself off from 
,vhat he might have, but from a career, while he must bear 
with you the odium you cannot escape. What is such an 
outlook for a brilliant young man at the beginning of his 
life? You are a woman of the world, and you know what 
would follow when the glamour of his present infatuation 
passes, as it must. 

Zolatel. {Resting elbow on the table and her side face 
on her half -closed hand, speaking reflectively.) Gladly 
would I give him all I am, or can be. I would surrender 
all, and be less than nothing for his sake. 

Dayton. {Leaning hack in his chair with complacency, 
and a shake and a forward move of his head.) There's no 
need of sacrifice. Just give him to understand you will 
not marry him, and decline to receive him and I will see 
that nothing is publicly known of your connection with 
your lather and his crime. 

Zolatel. {With despairing irony.) Crucifiction, that 
is all you ask. {With pathetic bitterness.) There are 
crosses on which souls, not bodies, are sacrificed. {Rising 
and holding to table as if to steady herself.) I have heard 
you. Time presses. I will let you know my decision, — 
within forty-eight hours. 

Dayton. {Rising.) If it ^s, what I think it must be, 
remember, I am yours to command. Adieu. 

(Dayton bows, Zolatel slightly inclines her head.) 

Zolatel. Blanid. 

(Blanid comes forward. EtH Blanid, shoiving 
Dayton out, r. c. Zolatel remains standing. 
As reception door is heard to close, she clasps 
her hands before her and stands a moment with 
interlocked fingers and tightly closed lips. 
Dratving her hands apart she raises them, with 
fingers closed, to the sides of her face and drops 
her chin between them. After standing for a 
moment, she lifts her head with a look of deter- 
mination and steps toward reception room, walk- 
ing unsteadily.) 



THE TESTING 65 

ZoLATEL. {Speaking in a strained, resolute tone.) Blanid! 
(ZoLATEL after a moment throws back her head and 
stands with a look of tense resolve. Enter 
Blanid r. c.) 

Blanid. (Regarding Zolatel tvith questioning anxiety.) 
Yes, Talla? 

Zolatel. (Speaking in a hurried, decisive tone.) Take 
those vases (indicates vases filled with carnations on mantel, 
book case and tables), empty them and bring them to me, 
and also the large box of flowers that came this morning. 

(Blanid, looking anxious and dubious, igathers up 
the vases. Exit Blanid b. c. Zolatel, with 
right hand resting on table in center of room, 
by which she is standing, raises left hand, with 
bent forefinger to chin and with slight frown, 
stands meditating. Enter Blanid r. c. with 
vases and large box which she places on table. 
Looks questioningly at Zolatel.) 

Zolatel. 'Phone down, and tell them to send two men 
up at once to make some changes here. Say I shall need 
them only a few minutes, but as I have an engagement, I 
want them sent without delay. (As Blanid turns to go.) 
Take this with you. (Indicates crystal bowl filled with 
carnations on table at ^vhich she is standing.) Kemove the 
carnations and bring it to me with those large red roses. 
(Glances at clock on mantel.) And please, Blan, make 
haste. 

(Exit Blanid d. r. c. shaking her head ominously. 
Zolatel opens box of flowers and proceeds to 
place them in the vases. When tivo are filled 
she takes them to mantel. Beturns to table and 
fills other vases.) 

Blanid. (Heard at 'phone in reception room.) Plase 
be sendin' up two men, immegiately, to make some changes 
in Mademoiselle's sail-yon. She'll not be keepin' 'em 
more 'an a few minutes but she's wantin' 'em at once as 
she's an engagement comin' on directly. 

(Enter Blanid d. r. c. with crystal bowl and bunch 
of large red roses, which she places on table.) 

Blanid. They say they '11 be sendin ' th ' men immegiately. 
(With one hand on table and expressing great anxiety in 
look and tone.) But, Talla, darlin', what is it ye 're 
mindin' to do? 

Zolatel. (Hurriedly setting the vases she has filled on 

one side of the table and proceeding to arrange the red 

roses in the crystal bowl and speaking quickly and in tone 

of finality, without looking up.) I can't explain now, 

5 



66 THE TESTING 

Blan, but if you love me, help me by doing what I ask and 
as quickly as you can. Bring in the potted plants, the 
smaller ones, but first those tall lilies, and put them on 
either side of the fireplace. 

{Exit Blanid r. c. Zolatel, after finishing placing 
roses in bowl, hastily picks up bits of leaves, 
stems and tissue paper and places in the box 
from which she has taken flowers. Enter Blanid 
R. c, carrying pot of tall golden lilies. Knock 
heard at reception-room door.) 

Zolatel. (As she places cover on box.) Take this wiin 
you, Blan, and tell the men to bring in that palm by the 
window. 

{Exit Blanid r. c. Zolatel takes vases from table 
at which she is standing and places them on 
book case, and small table near window h. c. 
Enter men with palm.) 
Zolatel. (Indicating space between d. r. c. and fire- 
place.) Please put that there and then bring in another 
(addressing Blanid), the largest one, Blan, you show them. 

(Exit Blanid with serving men. Zolatel draws up 
her clinched left hand and presses it to her chin, 
tightly closes her lips and her eyes for a moment, 
as if to gain control of her emotions. Then 
takes a deep breath and stands as if considering 
what she wants done. Enter serving men with 
palm R. c, followed by Blanid, who has a bowl 
filled with orchids in her hand.) 
Blanid. Do ye want these in here? (Indicates orchids 
in her hand.) 

Zolatel. Yes, put them on the tea table. (To serving 
men.) Put that down there, just above that door. (Indi- 
cates d. r. l. as men set down palm.) No, not so far back. 
Set it forward. (They move it fonvard so that it partially 
conceals door, tvhich is not fully closed.) That's better. 
Now, have them bring in the sago palm, Blan, and set it 
there. (Indicates d. l. u.) 

(Exit Blanid with serving men. Zolatel glances 
anxiously at clock on mantel. Enter serving 
men with palm, followed by Blanid with the 
second tall golden lily in pot, ivhich she places 
on opposite side of fireplace, from the one al- 
ready there.) 
Zolatel. (To serving men.) Put that here. (Indicates 
space below d. l. u.; to Blanid.) Eemove the screen and 
let the men bank the fireplace. (To serving men.) Please 
make haste. 



THE TESTING 67 

(Exit Blanid and serving men hurriedly, r. c. 
ZoLATEL steps to tabic in center of room and 
for a moment sta7uls considering. Then lays 
hands on back of carved tvood chair and pushes 
it forward so that it stands at the part of the 
table which is nearest audience. Enter serving 
men and Blanid with potted plants and moss 
with which they bank fireplace. Blanid has 
removed screen and stands with it in her hand.) 

Zolatel. ( Who stands with one hand on back of carved 
irood chair.) Put the screen, Blan, before the fireplace in 
the reception room. (Addressing serving men, who have 
finished banking fireplace.) Take the sofa (indicates sofa 
on right side of stage, placed out and diagonally between 
fireplace and book case), and put it on the other side below 
that palm (points to palm below D. l. u.), and put those 
chairs (motions with wave of hand to chairs L. s.) on the 
other side. 

(Serving men move sofa and place chairs as directed 
by Zolatel, ivho stands watching them, with 
occasional anxious glances at the clock. Enter 
Blanid e. c.) 

Zolatel. (Speaking to Blanid.) Are there any large 
long-stemed flowers? 

Blanid. There's some big peonies. 

Zolatel. Please bring them, in a large vase. 

(Exit Blanid d. r. c. Serving men finish placing 
chairs. ) 

Zolatel. That's all. I am much obliged to you. (As 
they are about to go.) Stop a moment. (Opens table 
drawer and takes coins from purse and hands one to each 
of the men.) 

Serving Man. (With a respectful nod of the head.) 
Thanks, Miss. 

Other Serving Man. (As he takes coin.) Thank you. 

(Enter Blanid e. c. ivith tall vase filled with 
peonies. She sets them on the table. Exit 
serving men r. c. Zolatel surveys the room for 
a moment, and glances at clock. Blanid stoops 
and picks up bits which have been dropped on 
the floor.) 

Zolatel. Have them send Mr. Vose-Taylor up at once 
when he comes, Blan; bring him in here and announce him 
at tne door of my boudoir. 

( 'Phone bell rings in reception room. Exit Blanid 
D. R. c. Zolatel stands for a moment with 



68 THE TESTING 

drawn brow, then goes to mantel and taTces panel 
picture of her mother. As she holds it before 
her she sighs and, with a look of anguish, presses 
her left hand to her brow and eyes, then slips 
chain, to which miniature is attached, from her 
neclc. Bends her head and looks at miniature, 
which lays in palm of her hand.) 

Blanid. (Heard at 'phone in reception room.) Plase 
send him up immegiately. 

(Enter Blanid r. c. Zolatel stands looTcing at 
miniature with absorbed gaze.) 

Blanid. (Stands for a moment regarding Zolatel with 
tender, distressed expression.) I told 'em to send up 
Misther Vose-Taylor, Talla. Shall I be stayin' while he's 
here? 

Zolatel. (With miniature still in open palm, raises her 
head as if recalled to herself.) No, when you've annotmced 
him, please go. And seat him there. (Indicates chair on 
upper right side of table.) Be sure about this. (In a 
tremulous voice and with an intonation and expression of 
desperate bitterness.) It is a part of the setting for the 
play. 

Blanid. I'll mind seatin' him as ye say. (Pauses and 
places her arms akimbo and looTcing at Zolatel with direct 
gaze.) ' I'm not knowin' th' mainin' av all this goin' on, 
Talla, but I do know it's not good to be takin' the divil's 
word about anything. 

(Knock is heard at reception-room door. Zolatel 
hurries, with pictures in her hand, across stage 
and goes out door L. u.) 

Exit Blanid e. c. 

(Zolatel halts a moment, listens, and as she hears 
Vose-Taylor's voice, with compressed lips and 
a look of desperate determination, passes through 
door L. u. a moment before Vose-Tatlor is 
ushered in to salon. Enter Vose-Taylor fol- 
lotved by Blanid. Vose-Taylor looks about 
room in amazement and seems dazed and dis- 
concerted.) 

Blanid. (Stepping forward to chair at right of table.) 
Plase be sated here, an' I'U shpeak to Mademoiselle. 

(Vose-Taylor does not sit but stands by table, with 
hand on chair indicated by Blanid, in attitude 
of expectant anxiety. Blanid knocks at door 
L. u.) 



THE TESTING 69 

ZoLATEL. {Heard speaking from within.) Yes, Blan. 

Blanid. {Opening door and steps partly into boudoir.) 
Misther Vose-Taylor, Mademoiselle. 

ZoLATEL. {Still speaking from within.) I did not realize 
it was so late. 

{After a few moments, Blanid steps out and hack, 
and holds door open. Enter Zolatel with a 
preoccupied air and a little enigmatic smile. 
Vose-Taylor comes quickly forward to meet 
her.) 

Zolatel. {Giving Vose-Taylor her hand and speaking 
quietly.) How prompt you are. 

Vose-Taylor. {Pauses a moment, then raises Zolatel 's 
hand with great tenderness to his lips.) Am I too prompt? 
'Tis the hour you named. {Impidsively throwing his arms 
about her.) My love, it seemed the hours would never pass 
and let me come to you. 

Zolatel. {Gently freeing herself and indicating chair 
on opposite side of table from where she is standing.) Shall 
we sit? {Seats herself in carved ivood chair.) 

(Vose-Taylor. as if dazed and unable to understand, 
seats himself. Blanid appears at door r. l., 
which, being partially open with the palm before 
it, conceals her from those on the stage, while 
she is in full vieiv of audience. As Zolatel 
stoops, ostensibly to draw an ottoman toward 
her, on which she places left foot, she clinches 
her left hand and closes her lips tightly for a 
moment as if to control her feelings, then sits 
erect. Blanid, eagerly watching her, looks very 
grave and shakes her head ominously. Vose- 
Taylor, looking mystified and distressed, 
glances at flowers and takes a breath as if he 
found breathing difficult.) 

Zolatel. {Who sits with her side face toward Vose- 
Taylor, and is partially concealed by the peonies in tall 
vase, turns to Vose-Taylor and pushes the bowl of red 
roses from her.) The odor of the flowers with which my 
friends surround me, is, I think, rather strong. {She rises, 
goes to window to open it. Vose-Taylor quickly precedes 
her.) 

Vose-Taylor. {As he opens window.) Permit me. 
{Turns quickly and puts arm about her.) What is it, Talla? 
Have I offended you? 

Zolatel. {Quietly withdrawing herself from his arm 
as she returns to table. Baises her eyebrows, purses her 
lips and speaks lightly.) Offended me? Oh, no, indeed! 
{As they stand by table in center of room, her hand resting 



70 THE TESTING 

lightly on it and her face turned partly from him.) But 
all plays end. Ours, of love extreme, is finished. {LooJcing 
fully at him with a smile.) Really, Jules, I do not believe 
you know how well you did your part. Could I have such 
support as you, I surely would realize my ideal of art. 
{Looling heyond him with introspective gase.) The art 
which gives the artist the worship of the world, and (pauses 
a little), I WILL have it. 

(ZoLATEL seats herself, still maintaining the appear- 
ance of one contemplating visions of the mind. 
Blanid, with hand on door Icnob, leans forward, 
and ivatching intently, shaTces her head.) 

Vose-Taylor. ( Who has seated himself at table opposite 
ZoLATEL, pushes the vase of peonies aside and with his hand 
on the table between them, with tender pleading in his 
tone and expression.) Do not trifle, Tautalla, darling, 
even for a few playful moments. I beg you, be with me 
ever your subtle, loving, wonderful self. 

ZoLATEL. {Leaning toward him, spealcs slowly and with 
a force intended to convince.) I am myself. Our im- 
promptu play is finished. Surely, you understood; you 
could not have believed it all. 

Vose-Taylor. {Expressing in looTc and tone amazement 
and distress.) Believe it? {With a constrained move- 
ment of his head and spealcing through his teeth.) Great 
God! how utterly I did believe it. {Pauses a moment.) 
What you told me of your life ivas true. Ah! Tautalla, 
this is but a cruel jest. Have done with it. You must be 
true, though all the world is false. 

(Blanid starts forward, and then seems to change 
her mind and resumes her position back of half- 
open door and palm.) 

ZoLATEL. {With a little smile of seeming satisfaction.) 
Then you did really believe it? Ah! {half closing her 
eyes) now I hnotv I can act convincingly. I have not 
dreamed, hoped, toiled in vain. 

Vose-Taylob. {SpeaTxing slowly and in a shaken voice.) 
And yoti. do not love me? It was all pretense? 

Zolatel. Why, of course, — it was all pretense. {Clinch- 
ing left hand and so shading her face, which is drawn with 
emotion, with her right that it is seen by audience but not 
by VoSE-'iAYLOR.) Have you not heard me called a queen 
of pretense? 

(Blanid, tcith her face and mouth set in lines of 
determination and with an emphatic shake of 
her head, makes a hurried exit from her position 
of observation.) 



THE TESTING 71 

Vose-Tatlor. (Bising and speaTcing sloivly and with 
repressed emotion.) I could not believe another, must I 
believe you, Tautalla, when you tell me you are heartless? 
And yet {speaking with sad emphasis), you hold my heart. 
All is now empty, worthless. You do not know what you 
have done. 

{While he is speaking Zolatel has risen. For a 

moment she turns her face from him and toward 

the audience with a look of despair. Then 

quickly lifting her head she faces Vose-Tayloe 

ivith a smile.) 

Zolatel. {Leaning slightly toward Vose-Taylor.) And 

now, Jules, adieu, just adieu. What is writ on hearts 

passes, as does writing on the sand. {Slight pause.) 

Again, adieu. 

(Vose-Tatlor steps to her side, takes her hand and 
raises it to his lips without speaking. Zolatel 
turns from him, her face convulsed with emo- 
tion. She clings with right hand to table for 
support. Enter Blanid r. c. with a hasty, deter- 
mined stride and a swish of skirts. She holds 
her head high and her expression is aggressive 
and resolved. As Vose-Taylor is about to pass 
from salon to reception room, Blanid halts him 
with raised hand.) 
Blanid. {Speaking with explosive determination.) 
Shtop! It's th' troth I'm goin' to be shpeakin' jest this 
minute, an' I'm not carin' what that divil man, Misther 
Dayton, be doin' an account av it. (Zolatel turns, startled 
and amazed, and stands for a moment dazed, as if unable 
to comprehend what she hears and sees. Blanid, pointing 
to Zolatel.) Me baby, there, is breakin' her heart {motions 
with right hand to Vose-Taylor as she addresses him) fer 
yer good, an' I'll not be permittin' it. 

(Zolatel raises her left hand to her face while with 
right she continues to cling to table for support.) 

Zolatel. {Exclaiming with a look of distress and con- 
sternation.) Blanid! Hoio dare you? 

Blanid. {Speaking with dignity, emotion and force, 
and in a tone of reproof.) Talla! it's shpeakin' to yer 
comrade ye arre that's savin' ye from drowndin' in a say 
av lies. {Turns and addresses Vose-Taylor.) That Day- 
ton divil man made her {extends hand toward Zolatel) 
balave yer love fer her 'u'd be yer ruination, an' th' poor 
baby has been actin' deceit to save ye. {With a side 
motion of her head and a look of pride.) An' she's that 
clever, ye couldn't, av course, be seein' her heart was a 
breaiiin '. 



72 THE TESTING 

( S^'ose-Taylob rushes to Zolatel, clasps her in Ms 
arms and kisses her hair, forehead and lips. 
Blanid, with a motion of her head, which indi- 
cates that she now has things to her mind, with 
a grim smile goes out R. c.) 

Vose-Taylor. (Looking into Zolatel 's face.) How 
could you do it, my darling? How could you? 

Zolatel. (Lifting her face with a pathetic little gesture 
and with her eyes raised to his.) I — love — you. (Clasping 
her hands and looking upward.) Love is first, and on its 
altar, if need be, must be laid renunciation. 

Vose-Taylor. But yovi were going to take your love, 
the light of my life, from me. 

Zolatel. (With a tremulous catch in her voice.) At 
first the great light of ovir love blinded me, and I did not 
see what ruin it would be for you, Jules, to marry me. 

Vose-Taylor. (Taking her two hands in his and step- 
ping back a little from her regards her with passionate 
devotion.) Ruin for me to marry the noble woman I 
adore? 

Zolatel. Yes; at first I thought of nothing but that we 
had found each other, but now I see things as they are. 

Vose-Taylor. (Smiling and touches her forehead with 
his lips.) Come (leads her toward sofa) and sit by me, 
and think of nothing but that we have now found each 
other. 

(They halt near sofa, each looking into the eyes of 
the other.) 

Zolatel. (With a sigh and an expression of extreme 
sadness.) There are other things I must think of, and now 
Blan has made it very bitter for (pauses a moment) both 
of us. 

Vose-Taylor. No, not bitter; sweet, most sweet. 
(Clasping her with vehement, masterful passion.) You 
shall never leave me again. (Looking into her face with 
glowing determination.) Understand! You are mine and 
nothing shall take you from me. 

(Zolatel shrinks from him ivith an ecstatic, yet half 
frightened look, as she gently withdraws herself 
from his embrace and sinks doion on sofa, as if 
for the moment exhausted. Vose-Taylor, as he 
seats himself beside her, puts his arm about her.) 

Zolatel. (After a moment's silence, raising her eyes to 
Vose-Taylor 's.) I must, Jules, free my father. (Speak- 
ing slowly and as if each word was difficult to utter.) I — 
am — a — ^defaulter's — daughter, — an actress. All I have of 
value in the world is my ideal, and to it I must hold. I will 



THE TESTING 73 

not obstruct your life, take from you the power to realize 
your beautiful aims. {Raises her head with a little gasp, 
choices, struggles a moment to gain control of her emotions 
and continues.) I took the way which seemed to me would 
give you least pain. 

Vose-Taylor. {Regarding her with devotion in which is 
a touch of worship.) Ah! Talla, uow can I be worthy of 
what you are? But you do not understand; you have been 
misled. Tell me why you thought you should do as you 
have? 

ZoLATEL. First, as I have said. Miss Latrave told me of 
your uncle's will and also of her love for you and, what 
she assumed, was your love for her. 

Vose-Taylor. {Starts back in amazed astonishment.) 
My love for Helen Latrave f I never thought of love in 
connection with her. 

ZoLATEL. I gave no heed to her assertion. Love must 
trust. I did not doubt you, Jules, but when Mr. Dayton 
came, 'twas different. 

Vose-Taylor. Dayton? What of him? 

ZoLATEL. He told me I was identitied as my father's 
daughter, and, claiming that fealty to your late uncle com- 
pelled him to guard your interests, set before me what the 
results must be if I became your wife. He called my at- 
tention to facts which I had not taken into account. I 
nmst earn $31,000 more before my father is free, and our 
honor vindicated. It was the facts which Mr. Dayton stated 
that convinced me, and they are unchanged. 

Vose-Taylor. {Drawing himself erect and speaking with 
force and decision.) No, Tautalla, the facts are not un- 
changed. {With slow emphasis.) You are no longer a 
defaulter's daughter. {Taking paper from his pocket and 
handing it to her.) That is a receipt from the Fidelity 
Company for $32,000 ; you have enough, with this, to make 
up the sum of your father's indebtedness and they have 
agreed to take it and sign a release. 

Zolatel. {Openi7ig paper and looking at it in a dazed 
way and speaking haltingly.) But the $32,000, where did 
it come from? 

Vose-Taylor. I sold the little invention I showed you. 

Zolatel. {Interlocking her fingers and leaning toward 
him with a look of joy.) And you, Jules, have freed my 
dear father. I cannot realize it. {With a sad expression 
quickly replacing smile and in a regretful, questioning tone.) 
But you have parted with your brain child? 

Vose-Taylor. {Drawing her to him and regarding her 
fondly.) Now I shall have my inspiration ever with me 
and it will be easy to do other things. That little invention 
was quite as much yours as mine. I had been groping help- 
lessly for the part which completed it, but when you traced 



74 THE TESTING 

the line with your finger the other night, the thing came to 
me in a flash. My way was lighted, Talla, by the flame of 
your soul and now, dearest, you are no more a queen of 
pretense, but the queen of my life. 

{Knocking heqrd at reception-room door, then 
voices. Above others, Blanid is heard.) 

Blanid. {Speaking impatiently and with determination.) 
I say again, it's engaged Mademoiselle is, an' ye can't be 
seein' her. 

i^A man's voice is heard, hut what he says cannot be 
distinguished. ) 

Blanid. {In an aggressive tone.) It's me own respon- 
sibility I'll be kapin', so long as I can be shtandin' on me 
two feet. 

(ZoLATEL and Vose-Tatlor hoth lean forward, 
listening.) 

Watson. That's right, Blanid, hold on to your respon- 
sibility and I will see to it that these fellows do not inter- 
fere with your feet, but we Tnust see Mademoiselle. 

ZoLATEL. {Turning to Vose-Taylor.) That's Dick's 
voice? 

Vose-Taylor. Yes, what does it mean? 

(ZoLATEL and Vose-Taylor rise and Watson is 
heard calling.) 

Watson. Ho-ho! A friend at your gate begs to be 
admitted. Eipe fruit must fall. Time presses. 

(ZoLATEL steps fbward door center. Vose-Taylor 
moves u. s. near palm and stands with hand 
resting on back of chair.) 

ZoLATEL. Blanid, show Mr. Watson in. 

{Enter Blanid r. c, followed by Watson, Sherwin, 
with monocle in his eye and looking grave and 
aignified, and Cavalack, a shreivd, alert, sedate 
man of about fifty.) 

Watson. {Taking Zolatel's extended hand and speak- 
ing earnestly.) Pardon this intrusion, dear friend, and 
permit me to introduce Mr. Cavalack. 

(Zolatel steps forward and with a winning smile 
extends her hand.) 

Cavalack. How d'ye do, Mademoiselle? Sorry to in- 
trude, but business is one of the necessities which knows 
no laws. 



THE TESTING 75 

ZOLATEL greets Sherwin xvith smiling cordiality. 
The three men nod familiarly to Vose-Taylor.) 

ZoLATEL. Pray, gentlemen, be seated. 

(_Blanid brings forward chairs. Cavalack goes to 
table, center, lays papers on it and seats himself 
on lei t side. Watson tahes seat near right side 
oj table at tvhich Cavalack is sitting. Zolatel 
seats herself v. s. from Vose-Taylor and near 
where Blanid is standing. Sherwin seats him- 
self between Watson and Zolatel. Blanid 
halts a moment and Zolatel motions to her and 
speaJcs, but what she says is not heard. Blanid 
goes to table, center, and removes peonies and 
places things in a way to give Cavalack space 
for papers. Cavalack tal^es out eye-glasses and 
adjusts them. Blanid goes to table near win- 
dow and after arranging it seats herself.) 

Cavalack. (Clearing his throat and glancing with a lit- 
tle nod to Zolatel.) With your permission, Mademoiselle, 
I will at once proceed to the business, which, on account of 
some recent discoveries, must, according to the provisions 
of the will, be taken up in a certain order and without de- 
lay. {Tapping paper held in left hand with forefinger of 
right and addressing Zolatel.) First, are you aware that, 
according to the terms of his late uncle's will, Vose-Taylor 
(indicates Vose-Taylor with a motion of his head), if he 
marries, as he assures me he intends to at once, will be 
deprived of a fortune of $17,000,000? 

Zolatel. (Seriously.) I quite understand. 

Cavalack. (SpeaMng slowly and impressively.) Of 
course you realize that, having forfeited the provisional 
inheritance his late uncle bequeathed him, Vose-Taylor will 
be a poor man, and, when you are married, you and he will 
have practically nothing. 

Zolatel. (SpeaMng quicMy and with great earnestness.) 
Pardon me, we shall have that which multiplies every joy 
and lessens every grief. I know, full well, that money is 
a ceaseless need, that its lack is often a dire calamity, and 
yet, there is much of supreme worth it cannot buy. (Eaising 
her head with proud confidence.) We have the kingdom of 
the great love, and other things will be added. 

Vose-Taylor. (Who has been thoughtfully pulling his 
moustache, spealing ivith gravity and manly force, addresses 
Cavalack.) I think yoit have not taken into account, Mr. 
Cavalack, that I have a contract, signed by you and the 
other executors, for building the apartments provided for 
in my uncle's will, and that I have my profession. 

Cavalack. (Turning to Sherwin and Watson with a 



76 THE TESTING 

nod and a pleased half smile.) We have, gentlemen, a 
business man as well as a lover to deal with. (Zolatel 
regards Vose-Taylob with a proud loolc and shining eyes. 
Cavalack continues, addressing Sherwin and Watson.) 
In my opinion, and be so good as to state whether or not 
you agree with me, the time has come to announce the con- 
tents of the codicils, attached to the will of my late client, 
John Jules Taylor. 

Vose-Taylor. (In great surprise.) -Codicils, were there 
codicils? 

Cavalack. Yes, two ; to be announced only under cer- 
tain conditions, which I think now exist. (Addressing 
Sherwin and Watson.) What do you say, gentlemen? 

Sherwin. I think there can be no doubt that they do 
exist. 

Watson. There is no doubt of it. 

(The light has gradually faded from the window 
L. c. Blanid, who has been sitting erect and 
alert, with her hands crossed in her lap, listening 
with intense interest, as Cavalack talces docu- 
ment from table, rises, turns on drop light at 
table where Cavalack is sitting and other lights.) 

Cavalack. (Adjusts eye-glasses, talces up document and 
glances over first page, then removes eye-glasses.) To 
briefly state the contents of these two codicils is all that 
is necessar_y. The first provision is if Karlton should 
marry before the expiration of four years, supposing that 
by doing so he forfeits $4,000,000, that sura is at once to 
be put to his credit. Karlton and Miss Latrave were hur- 
riedly married just before we came here. They leave at 
once for Europe and Dayton goes with them. 

Zolatel. (Exclaims in astonished incredulity.) Karl- 
ton and Miss Latrave married! 

Watson. And why not? They have long been in love 
in their way. 

Cavalack. By means of this marriage an ugly matter, 
involving the Taylor estate, is adjusted, and while it ia 
probable that Dayton, finding his game was up, made known 
to Karlton the purport of this codicil, there is no proof of 
it. Therefore, under the circumstances, we decided to pay 
the bequest and avoid a scandal. 

Vose-Taylor. (Frounmig and slightly lowering his 
head.) Then Dayton has been stealing and Jack has made 



Cavalack. Yes, that's it. Now for the second codicil. 
(Addressing Vose-Taylor.) That provides, if you meet a 
woman whose regard for you and yours for her is such that 
you decide to forfeit the provisional bequest of $17,000,000 
named in your uncle's will, that sum shall be placed at 



THE TESTING 77 

once to your account and your uncle's estate, Catherineton- 
on-the-Hudson, is to go to your wife as a wedding gift. 

(ZoLATEL raises her left hand to her face and con- 
tracts her brows as if unable to comprehend what 
she has heard. Vose-Taylor, with left foot for- 
ward and left hand on knee, and compressed lips, 
leans forward as if trying to grasp the complete 
change in his affairs.) 

Cavalack. (Adjusts eye-glasses and talces up second 
page of document from table. Addressing Vose-Taylok.) 
The ability and nobility of your uncle is indicated by the 
fact that he aimed to guard you and your cousin, even be- 
yond the grave, for he says : "In drawing my will and the 
accompanying codicils, my object is to protect my nephews 
from fortune hunters and seciire to them the disinterested 
affection for lack of which the life of my favorite sister, 
Catherine Taylor Vose, was wrecked. ' ' 

(Cavalack removes eye-glasses, glances first at 
Shekwin and then at Watson.) 

Cavalack. You have seen, gentlemen {indicates VosE- 
TAYLOKand Zolatel with motion of hand), what these two 
propose. Is it your opinion that the terms of the second 
codicil are fulfilled? 

Sherwin. {Gravely.) Most decidedly. 

Watson. {With a slight shake of his head.) There can 
be no doubt of it. 

Zolatel. {With interlocked fingers and hands pressed 
together, leans toivard Vose-Taylor, her face lighted with 
a look of joy and speaks in a voice tremulous with feeling.) 
Now, Jules, you can carry out your plans, and give a few, 
at least, who have never had it {pauses a little and speaks 
with slow emphasis), the greatest thing in the world, oppor- 
tunity. We will work together, always together. 

(Vose-Taylor quickly takes Zolatel 's hand and 
presses it with passionate devotion to his lips. 
Cavalack, Sherwin and Watson regard her 
with admiration. Blanid, who has been listen- 
ing with absorbed self -unconsciousness, rises, 
takes a step toward Zolatel, but halts as Cava- 
lack advances u. s. to Vose-Taylor with ex- 
tended hand. Zolatel, Sherwin and Watson 
rise.) 

Cavalack. {Grasping Vose-Taylor 's hand.) Congrat- 
ulations! You are fortunate, my boy, beyond the fortune 
you inherit, in the love of a wise and noble woman with 
whom you will, I believe, live in love and good counsel. 



78 THE TESTING 

(Turning to Zolatel.) May you have the happiness you 
deserve, lou could not, in my opinion, have more. 

(Cavalack returns to table and picks up and arranges 
papers. ) 

Watson. (ShaJcing hands with Vose- Taylor, and with 
a little wave of his hand toward Cavalack.) He's said it 
all, but here's my hand on it. (Turns to Zolatel and takes 
her hand.) I can but repeat, dear friend, here's my hand 
on what's already been said. (With a glance at Sherwin.) 
Flossy was right, as usual, when he called you the Golden 
Zolatel. 

(Zolatel shakes her head with a depreciatory look 
and shrug, and Watson t^irns toward table 
where Cavalack is arranging papers, as Sher- 
win, lifting his coat skirts lightly between his 
thumb and first finger, takes a fantastic step or 
two and bows first to Zolatel and then to Vose- 
Taylor. Watson shakes his head and smiles.) 

Sherwin. We hail the Golden Zolatel and we rejoice 
( Sings. ) ' ' And we '11 have no trouble any more, any more, 
And we'll have no trouble any more." (Zolatel and 
Vose-Taylor return Sherwin 's boiv, laughing.) 

(Cavalack regards Sherwin in blank amazement.) 

Cavalack. (As Sherwin halts.) And this is the keen 
man of business, who discovered Dayton's million-dollar 
steal and pointed out how the thing could be arranged and 
disgraceful publicity avoided? 

Sherwin. Ah, no! (Closing his mouth so that his lips 
are a straight line, rubs the palms of his clasped hands to- 
gether, while his expression becomes keen, hard and inquisi- 
tive.) This is the man of affairs. (Placing monocle in eye 
and assuming a faraivay, unseeing look.) This the man of 
books. (Taking a light fantastic pose and a few steps.) 
And this the other fellow. Being a one-bodied triplet 
(resting hands on back of chair), I, of necessity, lead a 
trifoliated life. 

Cavalack. (Laughing as he speaks.) One of the three 
persons of which you are composed, certainly saved the day 
and brought things out right for all of us. 

Blanid. (With a negative motion of her head and a 
look of grim approval.) An' sure ye can't be tellin', by 
th' way ye look at a toad, what kind av a jump he'll be 
makin '. 

Zolatel. (As if suddenly realizing, goes quickly to 
Blanid, takes her hand and presses it against her cheek 
with a gesture of tender affection.) Dear old comrade, but 
for you the day would have been lost for us. 



THE TESTING 79 

Blanid. {Regarding Zolatel with devoted tenderness.) 
'Tisn 't much I be able f er, me darlin ', but there arre toims 
when one agin th' divil is a majority. 

Vose-Taylor. (Looking at Blanid with wonder and 
regard.) You've been that majority this day, Blanid. 

Sherwin. (Stepping forward and bowing before 
Blanid.) I salute you, Blanid. Your majority of one is 
a great success. If every one of us could be that majority 
all the time. (Sings as he takes fantastic side steps with 
knee bends, singers in wings join in the singing.) "We'd 
be all against the devil, and would all be upon a level, And 
when upon that level we would circumvent the devil, And 
there 'd be no trouble any more, any more, and there 'd be 
no trouble any more." 

(Cavalack, amused, looks at Sherwin and. keeps 
time io the singing by tapping on the table with 
document in his hand. Zolatel taps Blanid 's 
hand, which she still holds, in time to the singing 
and Blanid regards Zolatel as she would a 
happy child. Watson beats time with his finger 
tips on the back of the chair by which he is 
standing. All join in singing the chorus. Vose- 
Taylor marks the time with a slight motion of 
his head, while regarding Zolatel with a look 
of devotion, which she returns. All are singing 
as curtain descends. The singing continues as 
audience go out.) 

THE END 



JUN I : 1909 



LB '09 



W18 




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BOOKBINDING H • ^d>-. 
Grantville Pa B <#* 

Nov -Dec 1988 ll 




